### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word σκωληκόβρωτος (skōlēkóbrōtos, `{{G4662}}`) is a compound adjective formed from σκώληξ (skōlēx, `{{G4663}}`), meaning "worm" or "maggot," and a derivative of βιβρώσκω (bibrōskō, `{{G977}}`), "to eat" or "to consume." Thus, its literal and primary meaning is "worm-eaten" or "consumed by worms/maggots." The term vividly describes a state of physical decay or disease where living tissue is infested and consumed by larvae. It carries a strong connotation of corruption, putrefaction, and a particularly gruesome, humiliating end, often associated with a divine curse or judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term σκωληκόβρωτος appears only once in the New Testament, in the book of Acts, specifically describing the death of Herod Agrippa I:
* **[[Acts 12:23]]**: "Immediately an angel of the Lord struck him down, because he did not give God the glory, and he was eaten by worms and breathed his last."
The context is crucial. Herod Agrippa I, having received a delegation from Tyre and Sidon, was sitting on his throne, dressed in splendid robes. When he addressed the people, they shouted, "The voice of a god, and not of a man!" ([[Acts 12:22]]). Instead of rebuking this blasphemous adulation, Herod accepted it. The immediate consequence was a swift and terrifying divine judgment. The phrase "eaten by worms" (σκωληκόβρωτος) underscores the humiliating and physically repulsive nature of his death. It highlights the stark contrast between his earthly pomp and the ignominious, divinely orchestrated end, emphasizing the fragility of human power and the swiftness of God's judgment against pride and blasphemy.
### Related Words & Concepts
The root word σκώληξ (skōlēx, `{{G4663}}`) itself appears in significant contexts, particularly in references to eternal judgment. In [[Mark 9:48]], Jesus speaks of a place "where their worm does not die and the fire is not quenched," drawing directly from Old Testament imagery, notably [[Isaiah 66:24]]. This connection links the concept of worms not merely to physical decay but also to an enduring state of divine judgment or torment.
Concepts related to σκωληκόβρωτος include:
* **Divine Judgment:** The immediate and physical manifestation of God's wrath against sin, particularly pride and blasphemy.
* **Hubris/Pride:** The sin that often precedes such a fall, as exemplified by Herod.
* **Mortality and Decay:** A stark reminder of the perishable nature of the human body and the ultimate futility of worldly power without God.
* **Corruption:** Both moral and physical, signifying a state of putrefaction.
* **Old Testament Parallels:** The imagery of worms and maggots consuming the proud or the dead is present in the Old Testament, often symbolizing humiliation, decay, and the grave ([[Job 17:14]], [[Job 25:6]], [[Isaiah 14:11]], [[Isaiah 66:24]]). This intertextual background enriches the understanding of Herod's fate.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of σκωληκόβρωτος in the New Testament carries profound theological weight.
1. **Divine Sovereignty and Active Judgment:** Herod's death serves as a powerful demonstration of God's absolute sovereignty over human life and destiny. It shows that God does not merely observe but actively intervenes in human affairs, especially when His glory is usurped or blasphemed. The immediate nature of the judgment emphasizes its divine origin.
2. **The Humiliation of Pride:** The manner of Herod's death underscores the biblical principle that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble ([[James 4:6]], [[1 Peter 5:5]]). For a king to be consumed by worms is the ultimate humiliation, stripping away all earthly glory and power, reducing him to a decaying corpse. It is a vivid illustration of the transient nature of human authority when it stands against divine authority.
3. **Consequences of Blasphemy:** Herod's acceptance of divine praise was an act of blasphemy, attributing to himself what belongs only to God. The gruesome end serves as a severe warning against such sacrilege. It highlights the seriousness with which God views the usurpation of His unique glory.
4. **Mortality and the End of Earthly Power:** Beyond the immediate judgment, the term reminds humanity of its inherent mortality and the ultimate decay awaiting all flesh. No matter how powerful or esteemed in life, all are subject to the same physical end, a stark contrast to the hope of resurrection and an imperishable body offered through Christ.
### Summary
σκωληκόβρωτος (skōlēkóbrōtos, `{{G4662}}`) literally means "worm-eaten" or "consumed by maggots," a vivid descriptor of physical decay. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Acts 12:23]] powerfully depicts the divine judgment upon Herod Agrippa I for his pride and blasphemy. This single, impactful word encapsulates several profound theological truths: God's active sovereignty and swift judgment against human hubris, the humiliating consequences of usurping divine glory, and the stark reality of human mortality. It serves as a potent biblical warning against pride and a powerful affirmation of God's ultimate authority over all earthly powers.
TRV