### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **smyrnízō**, represented by `{{G4669}}`, means **to tincture with myrrh** or to embitter, often as a narcotic. It is derived from Σμύρνα (Smyrna) and is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular usage describes the specific act of mixing wine with myrrh.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G4669}}` is in the crucifixion narrative. In [[Mark 15:23]], as Jesus is on the cross, he is offered a drink: "they gave him to drink wine **mingled with myrrh**." This mixture was likely intended as a narcotic to dull the excruciating pain of the crucifixion. However, the verse immediately clarifies his response to this offer, stating, "but he received it not" [[Mark 15:23]]. This moment highlights a deliberate choice to refuse any form of anesthetic.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of this single verse is illuminated by several other key words used alongside `{{G4669}}`:
* `{{G1325}}` **dídōmi** (to give): This word signifies the act of offering or bestowing. In this case, they **gave** him the drugged wine, an act which stands in stark contrast to God's act to **give** his Son for the world [[John 3:16]].
* `{{G3631}}` **oînos** (wine): This refers to the **wine** used as the base for the myrrh mixture. While wine is used in many contexts, its use here is as a vehicle for a narcotic, a substance believers are elsewhere warned against being drunk with [[Ephesians 5:18]].
* `{{G2983}}` **lambánō** (to take): This word means to take or receive. Jesus's refusal to **receive** the myrrh-laced wine is a pivotal action in the narrative [[Mark 15:23]], especially when contrasted with the call for believers to **receive** him to become children of God [[John 1:12]].
* `{{G3756}}` **ou** (not): This simple negative adverb is critical, emphasizing that he did **not** receive the drink. Its use underscores a definite and absolute refusal, as seen in other declarations like God has **not** given a spirit of fear [[2 Timothy 1:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4669}}` is concentrated entirely in its single use. It defines a crucial moment of decision in the Passion story.
* **Conscious Suffering:** The act of **mingling with myrrh** was to create a pain-dulling agent. By refusing it, Jesus consciously chose to endure the full physical and spiritual agony of the crucifixion without any relief.
* **Fulfillment of Purpose:** The refusal of the narcotic demonstrates an unwavering commitment to completing his mission. The offering represents a temptation to lessen the appointed suffering, but Jesus rejects it, showing that his sacrifice was total and unmitigated.
* **The Nature of the Offering:** The drink offered was **wine** `{{G3631}}` that was **mingled with myrrh** `{{G4669}}`. This specific mixture, offered but not received, stands as a symbol of the worldly comfort that was rejected in favor of fulfilling a divine purpose.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G4669}}` **smyrnízō** is one of the rarest words in the New Testament, its single appearance is profoundly significant. It captures the precise moment where Jesus refuses a narcotic, thereby highlighting the fully conscious and voluntary nature of his suffering. This one word, in its sole context in [[Mark 15:23]], provides a key detail that underscores the depth of his sacrifice.
TRV