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.
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.
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.
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.
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