### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **skṓlēx**, represented by `{{G4663}}`, refers to a **worm**, grub, or maggot. While its base definition is biological, its biblical usage is highly specific and symbolic. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses**, with all occurrences found in the same chapter of scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The use of `{{G4663}}` is exclusively found in a single, repeated phrase within the Gospel of Mark. In the context of describing a state of eternal consequence, the text states, "**Where** `{{G3699}}` their `{{G846}}` **worm** `{{G4663}}` dieth `{{G5053}}` **not** `{{G3756}}`, **and** `{{G2532}}` the **fire** `{{G4442}}` is **not** `{{G3756}}` **quenched** `{{G4570}}`" ([[Mark 9:44]], [[Mark 9:46]], [[Mark 9:48]]). In this powerful depiction, the **worm** is presented not as a creature that dies, but as one that persists alongside unquenchable **fire**.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the solemn context in which `{{G4663}}` is used:
* `{{G5053}}` **teleutáō** (die): This word means to finish life or expire. Its negation is central to the meaning of the passages, emphasizing that the **worm** does not **die** [[Mark 9:44]].
* `{{G4442}}` **pŷr** (fire): Defined literally or figuratively as "fire," this word is always paired with **skṓlēx** in its scriptural occurrences, creating a dual image of unending consequence [[Mark 9:48]].
* `{{G4570}}` **sbénnymi** (quench): Meaning to extinguish. Just as the worm does not die, the associated fire is described as something that cannot be **quenched** [[Mark 9:44]].
* `{{G3756}}` **ou** (not): This absolute negative particle is crucial, as it establishes the unending nature of the worm's existence and the fire's burning [[Mark 9:46]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4663}}` is derived entirely from its specific, repeated context.
* **Symbol of Permanence:** The primary significance of the **worm** is its permanence. The explicit statement that it "dieth **not** `{{G3756}}`" points to an unending state of being or decay [[Mark 9:48]].
* **Paired with Judgment:** The **worm** `{{G4663}}` is never mentioned alone. It is always part of a couplet with unquenchable **fire** `{{G4442}}`, together symbolizing a complete and ceaseless state of judgment.
* **A State of Consequence:** The phrase is introduced by the word "**Where**" `{{G3699}}`, indicating that the undying worm and unquenched fire describe the condition of a specific place or state of being [[Mark 9:44]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4663}}` **skṓlēx** is a term used with stark consistency in the New Testament. Though appearing only three times, its role is significant. It serves as a potent and sobering symbol of perpetuity, always linked with inextinguishable fire to describe a state of unending consequence. The word illustrates how a simple creature can be used metaphorically to convey a profound theological reality.
TRV