### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb σμυρνίζω (smyrnízō, `{{G4669}}`) is derived directly from σμύρνα (smyrna, `{{G4666}}`), meaning "myrrh." Myrrh itself is a fragrant, bitter-tasting gum resin obtained from various trees of the genus *Commiphora*. Historically, it was valued for its aromatic qualities, medicinal properties, and use in embalming. The core meaning of σμυρνίζω is "to tincture with myrrh" or "to mix with myrrh." The base definition further specifies this action as "to embitter (as a narcotic)," highlighting two key aspects of myrrh's effect: its inherent bitterness and its use as an analgesic or stupefying agent. In ancient pharmacology, myrrh was often mixed with wine to create a pain-dulling concoction, serving as a mild anesthetic, particularly for those undergoing extreme suffering.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb σμυρνίζω (smyrnízō, `{{G4669}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospel of Mark:
* **[[Mark 15:23]]**: "And they offered him wine mingled with myrrh: but he received it not."
This solitary occurrence is profoundly significant, taking place during the crucifixion of Jesus. As Jesus was being led to Golgotha, the Roman soldiers offered Him a drink of wine mixed with myrrh. This practice was a common act of "mercy" extended to condemned individuals, intended to dull their senses and alleviate the excruciating pain of crucifixion, effectively acting as a narcotic. The bitter taste of the myrrh would have been notable, but its primary purpose in this context was its analgesic effect. Jesus' immediate refusal of this drink is a crucial detail. He consciously chose to endure the full, unmitigated agony of the cross, without any form of pain relief or numbing agent. This decision underscores His complete willingness to experience the depth of human suffering and divine wrath for the atonement of sins, fully aware and fully present in His sacrifice.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding σμυρνίζω (smyrnízō, `{{G4669}}`) is enriched by examining its linguistic relatives and conceptual parallels:
* **σμύρνα (smyrna, `{{G4666}}`)**: The noun from which σμυρνίζω is derived. Myrrh itself appears elsewhere in the Gospels, notably as one of the precious gifts brought by the Magi to the infant Jesus ([[Matthew 2:11]]), and as part of the mixture used by Nicodemus to prepare Jesus' body for burial ([[John 19:39]]). These occurrences highlight myrrh's association with royalty, sacrifice, and death.
* **οἶνος (oinos, `{{G3631}}`)**: "Wine," the substance with which myrrh was mingled. Wine was a staple drink and often used as a base for medicinal preparations.
* **ὄξος (oxos, `{{G3690}}`)**: "Sour wine" or "vinegar." This is a distinct drink offered to Jesus later on the cross, mentioned in [[Matthew 27:34]] and [[John 19:29]]. While the myrrh-laced wine was intended as an anesthetic, the sour wine was likely a common, cheap drink for soldiers, possibly offered out of mockery or simple refreshment. The distinction between the two offerings emphasizes Jesus' refusal of pain relief.
* **Concepts of Suffering and Sacrifice**: The context surrounding σμυρνίζω inherently connects it to themes of intense suffering, the nature of pain, and the concept of a deliberate, unmitigated sacrifice.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of σμυρνίζω (smyrnízō, `{{G4669}}`) in the narrative of Christ's passion carries profound theological weight. Jesus' refusal of the myrrh-laced wine is not a mere detail but a deliberate act that illuminates the character of His atonement:
1. **Full Identification with Human Suffering**: By refusing the narcotic, Jesus embraced the full physical and emotional torment of crucifixion. He did not seek to mitigate the pain but chose to experience it in its rawest form, thereby fully identifying with the suffering of humanity. This emphasizes the reality and depth of His human experience.
2. **Conscious and Willing Sacrifice**: His decision demonstrates that His sacrifice was not undertaken in a drugged stupor but with full consciousness and unwavering resolve. He was fully aware of every moment of His suffering, affirming the voluntary and intentional nature of His atoning work for sin. This highlights His obedience to the Father's will and His active participation in the redemption of humanity.
3. **The Unmitigated Nature of Atonement**: The refusal signifies that the cup of suffering He was to drink, representing the divine wrath against sin, could not be diluted or lessened. He bore the full penalty, providing a complete and perfect atonement. This contrasts with the human tendency to avoid pain; Jesus embraced it for redemptive purposes.
4. **A Foreshadowing of His Resurrection**: Having fully experienced death and its bitter sting, His subsequent triumph over it through resurrection gains even greater significance. He truly died and truly rose, having faced death without compromise.
### Summary
The Greek word σμυρνίζω (smyrnízō, `{{G4669}}`), meaning "to mingle with myrrh" or "to embitter as a narcotic," appears only once in the New Testament, in the account of Jesus' crucifixion in [[Mark 15:23]]. It describes the myrrh-laced wine offered to Jesus as a pain-dulling agent. Jesus' deliberate refusal of this drink is a moment of immense theological significance, revealing His conscious and willing embrace of the full, unmitigated agony of the cross. This act underscores His complete identification with human suffering, the voluntary nature of His atoning sacrifice, and the uncompromised depth of His redemptive work on behalf of humanity. Though rare, σμυρνίζω points to a pivotal choice that defines the character of Christ's passion and the efficacy of His atonement.
TRV