συντρίβω

syntríbō /soon-tree'-bo/ Ask about this word
Rootfrom σύν and the base of τρίβος
Meaningto crush completely, i.e. to shatter (literally or figuratively)
KJV usagebreak (in pieces), broken to shivers (+ -hearted), bruise.
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Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word syntríbō, represented by G4937, means to crush completely or shatter. Derived from σύν and the base of τρίβος, its definition encompasses both literal and figurative destruction, translated as to break in pieces, bruise, or break to shivers. It appears 9 times across 8 unique verses in the Bible, illustrating its application to both physical objects and profound spiritual states.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

In the biblical narrative, G4937 is used to describe acts of both violent force and gentle restraint. Literally, it depicts the shattering of an alabaster box of ointment Mark 14:3 and the breaking of fetters by a man of superhuman strength Mark 5:4. Figuratively, it conveys the depth of emotional pain in the term "brokenhearted," whom Jesus is sent to heal Luke 4:18. It is also used prophetically, stating that a bone of the Messiah would not be "broken" John 19:36 and that God will ultimately "bruise" Satan under the feet of believers Romans 16:20.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words provide a fuller context for the concept of breaking or crushing:

  • G1288 diaspáō (to draw apart, i.e. sever or dismember): This word is used with G4937 in describing the demon-possessed man who had "plucked asunder" the chains and "broken in pieces" the fetters Mark 5:4.
  • G2352 thraúō (to crush): This term appears in Luke's description of Jesus's mission, where He is sent to set at liberty those who are "bruised," connecting physical or spiritual oppression with the state of being "brokenhearted" Luke 4:18.
  • G2608 katágnymi (to rend in pieces, i.e. crack apart): This word is contrasted with the Messiah's gentleness, who will not "break" a reed that is already "bruised" Matthew 12:20. It is also the word used for the physical breaking of legs on the cross John 19:32.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of G4937 is significant, highlighting key aspects of Christ's mission and God's power.

  • Messianic Gentleness: The word defines the Messiah's character. He does not add to suffering by breaking a "bruised" reed, but instead comes specifically to heal the "brokenhearted," showing compassion for the weak and vulnerable (Matthew 12:20, Luke 4:18).
  • Divine Judgment: G4937 illustrates God's ultimate authority and power. He promises believers that He will "bruise" Satan under their feet, signifying total victory over evil Romans 16:20. This power is also seen in the warning that nations will be "broken to shivers" like a potter's vessel Revelation 2:27.
  • Prophetic Fulfillment: The word is crucial in a prophecy concerning the crucifixion. The fact that not a bone of Jesus would be "broken" distinguishes his death and fulfills the scriptural requirement for the sacrificial lamb John 19:36.

Summary

In summary, G4937 is a powerful word that conveys more than simple physical action. It encapsulates a spectrum from violent destruction to the deepest emotional suffering. Through this word, scripture reveals the dual nature of God's work: the power to shatter his enemies and the tenderness to heal those who are crushed in spirit, all culminating in the person of a Messiah who endures being bruised for others without being broken himself.

Grammatical Forms

In the Greek New Testament, this word appears as a verb across 8 occurrences, inflected in 8 grammatical forms.

  • 2nd Future Passive Indicative 3rd Singular 1×
  • Aorist Active Participle Nominative Singular Feminine 1×
  • Future Active Indicative 3rd Singular 1×
  • Perfect Passive Infinitive 1×
  • Perfect Passive Participle Accusative Plural Masculine 1×
  • Perfect Passive Participle Accusative Singular Masculine 1×
  • Present Active Participle Nominative Singular Neuter 1×
  • Present Passive Indicative 3rd Singular 1×
Nominative
The subject of the verb.
Accusative
The direct object of the verb.
Singular
One.
Plural
More than one.
Masculine
Masculine grammatical gender.
Feminine
Feminine grammatical gender.
Neuter
Neuter grammatical gender.
2nd
Second person — the one addressed ("you").
3rd
Third person — the one spoken about ("he"/"they").
Present
Action in progress or repeated — happening now or continually.
Future
Action yet to take place.
Aorist
Action viewed as a single whole — usually a simple past event.
Perfect
A completed act whose results continue.
Active
The subject performs the action.
Passive
The subject is acted upon.
Indicative
A plain statement of fact.
Infinitive
The verb as a noun — "to do".
Participle
A verbal adjective — describes while carrying the verb's action.

Theographic Context

Biblical Distribution

Appears in 8 verses across 6 books. Most frequent in Mark (2 verses).

1
Matthew
2
Mark
2
Luke
1
John
1
Romans
1
Revelation

Verse Explorer

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