The Greek word τρίζω (trízō), represented by G5149, is a verb whose base meaning is to creak or squeak. It is used in scripture by analogy to mean the grating of teeth in a frenzy, translated as gnash. This word is extremely rare, appearing only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the entire Bible.
The sole biblical appearance of G5149 occurs in Mark's narrative of a father describing his son's affliction by an unclean spirit. The father reports that whenever the spirit seizes the boy, it "teareth him... and he foameth, and gnasheth with his teeth, and pineth away" Mark 9:18. The use of trízō here is part of a cluster of descriptions that paint a vivid picture of violent convulsions and extreme physical distress, demonstrating the severe torment inflicted by the spirit.
Several words used in the immediate context of G5149 help to build this picture of intense suffering:
- G4486 rhḗgnymi: Meaning to "break," "wreck," or "lacerate," and by implication, "to convulse (with spasms)." This describes the violent physical attack the boy endures Mark 9:18.
- G875 aphrízō: Defined as "to froth at the mouth (in epilepsy)." This word specifies another physical manifestation of the seizure, highlighting the loss of control Mark 9:18.
- G3599 odoús: The word for "tooth." The grinding of teeth is a recurring image of extreme anguish and judgment throughout the Gospels Matthew 8:12.
- G3583 xēraínō: Meaning "to desiccate" or "wither away." This describes the debilitating, life-draining effect of the recurring affliction on the boy's body Mark 9:18.
The thematic significance of G5149 is tied entirely to its single, powerful use.
- Physical Manifestation of Evil: The word provides a tangible depiction of the consequence of demonic affliction. The act of gnashing is not a choice but a physical torment inflicted upon the victim.
- A Portrait of Agony: Trízō vividly portrays a state of uncontrollable frenzy and pain. It is one of several physical symptoms that together illustrate the horror of the boy's condition before his healing Mark 9:18.
- Foreshadowing of Judgment: While G5149 is used once, the closely related action of "gnashing of teeth" (G3599) is a common description of the suffering found in "outer darkness," a state of separation from God Luke 13:28.
In summary, G5149 is a specific and impactful verb that, in its single biblical context, offers a stark illustration of physical torment. Used to describe the gnashing of teeth during a demonic seizure, it underscores the violent and agonizing nature of such spiritual oppression. Its appearance in Mark 9:18 gives a concrete example of the kind of anguish that is described elsewhere in scripture as a feature of ultimate judgment.
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