### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **stauróō**, represented by `{{G4717}}`, means **to impale on the cross**. It is derived from the word for cross, `{{G4716}}` σταυρός. Appearing **48 times** in **42 unique verses**, its primary use describes the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, but it also carries a significant figurative meaning: to extinguish or subdue passion and selfishness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4717}}` is used overwhelmingly to describe the final hours of Jesus's life. The term appears repeatedly in the Gospels as the crowd cries out, "Crucify him" ([[Mark 15:13-14]], [[Luke 23:21]]). The act itself is a fulfillment of Jesus's own words that the Son of man would be betrayed to be crucified ([[Matthew 26:2]], [[Luke 24:7]]). The accounts detail the event, stating that after being delivered by Pilate, "they crucified him" ([[Matthew 27:35]], [[Luke 23:33]]). Beyond the literal act, the word is used figuratively by Paul to describe a spiritual reality for believers, who "have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts" [[Galatians 5:24]] and are themselves crucified to the world [[Galatians 6:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the events surrounding the act of crucifixion:
* `{{G3860}}` **paradídōmi** (to surrender, i.e yield up, intrust, transmit): This word is consistently used to describe Jesus being **delivered** up to the authorities and ultimately to be crucified ([[Matthew 20:19]], [[Mark 15:15]]).
* `{{G1702}}` **empaízō** (to jeer at, i.e. deride): This term describes the **mocking** Jesus endured from the Gentiles and soldiers immediately before He was led away to be crucified ([[Matthew 20:19]], [[Mark 15:20]]).
* `{{G520}}` **apágō** (to take off (in various senses):--bring, carry away, lead (away), put to death, take away): This word signifies the action of leading Jesus **away** to the place of crucifixion ([[Matthew 27:31]], [[John 19:16]]).
* `{{G5417}}` **phragellóō** (to whip, i.e. lash as a public punishment): This specific term for **scourging** is used to describe the whipping Jesus received from Pilate before being delivered to be crucified ([[Matthew 27:26]], [[Mark 15:15]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4717}}` is central to the Christian faith, establishing key doctrines.
* **The Proclaimed Gospel:** The apostles' core message was "Christ crucified" [[1 Corinthians 1:23]], a truth that was a "stumblingblock" to Jews and "foolishness" to Greeks. Paul determined to know nothing among the Corinthians "save Jesus Christ, and him crucified" [[1 Corinthians 2:2]].
* **Human Responsibility and Divine Sovereignty:** The act of crucifixion is attributed to human hands, as Peter states, "whom ye have crucified" [[Acts 2:36]]. Yet, it is also presented as part of a divine plan, as the "princes of this world" would not have "crucified the Lord of glory" if they had known [[1 Corinthians 2:8]]. This highlights the paradox of Jesus being "crucified through weakness, yet he liveth by the power of God" [[2 Corinthians 13:4]].
* **Spiritual Identification:** To be a follower of Christ involves a figurative crucifixion. Paul declares that for a believer, "the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world" [[Galatians 6:14]]. This signifies a decisive break with the world's systems and the death of the sinful self.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4717}}` transcends its literal definition of a brutal execution. It represents the historical climax of Jesus's earthly ministry, the central proclamation of the early church, and a profound spiritual metaphor for the Christian's life of self-denial and union with Christ. The word captures the intersection of human rejection and divine purpose, transforming an instrument of death into a symbol of life and redemption.
TRV