The Greek word týptō, represented by G5180, means to "thump" or "pummel," an action defined by repeated blows. It appears 14 times across 13 unique verses in the Bible. The definition explicitly differentiates it from words implying a single blow, highlighting its use for cudgeling or repeated striking. Its applications range from literal physical assault to the figurative act of offending the conscience.
In biblical narratives, G5180 is used to describe acts of violence, justice, and grief. It portrays the abuse of authority, as seen in the parable of the wicked servant who begins to beat the menservants and maidens Luke 12:45. It also depicts mob violence, such as when the crowd stopped beating Paul upon the arrival of soldiers Acts 21:32 or when Sosthenes was beat before the judgment seat Acts 18:17. The term is prominent in the passion narratives, where soldiers smote Jesus on the head Matthew 27:30 and struck him while he was blindfolded Luke 22:64. Conversely, the word also illustrates profound repentance, as when the publican smote upon his breast G4738 to show his remorse Luke 18:13.
Several related words help clarify the context surrounding the act of smiting:
- G3817 paíō (to hit (as if by a single blow and less violently than τύπτω)): This word is directly contrasted with G5180. After Jesus's captors struck (týptō) him, they mockingly asked who it was that smote (paíō) him Luke 22:64.
- G2753 keleúō (to incite by word, i.e. order): This term shows how an act of smiting can be initiated by a command. Paul directly challenges the high priest who unlawfully commandest him to be smitten Acts 23:3.
- G4028 perikalýptō (to cover all around, i.e. entirely): This action is directly linked to the abuse of Christ. The soldiers blindfolded (perikalýptō) him before they began to struck (týptō) him on the face Luke 22:64.
- G1716 emptýō (to spit at or on): An act of deep disrespect, spitting is mentioned alongside smiting in the mockery of Jesus. Soldiers did spit upon him before they smote him on the head with a reed Mark 15:19.
The theological weight of G5180 is demonstrated in several key areas:
- Abuse and Injustice: The word frequently highlights sinful behavior and the misuse of power, as when an unfaithful servant smites his fellow servants Matthew 24:49 or when Paul is unlawfully ordered to be smitten Acts 23:3.
- The Suffering of Christ: The use of G5180 is critical in describing the physical torment Jesus endured. He was smote with a reed Mark 15:19 and struck by his captors Luke 22:64, showing the depth of his humiliation.
- Figurative Wounding: The meaning extends beyond physical harm to spiritual injury. Paul explains that when believers sin against their brethren, they wound their weak conscience, which is a sin against Christ 1 Corinthians 8:12.
- Outward Sign of Grief: In a starkly different context, the act of smiting oneself on the breast is a physical manifestation of deep remorse and repentance, as seen with the publican Luke 18:13 and the crowds at the crucifixion Luke 23:48.
In summary, G5180 is a powerful word signifying repeated, forceful blows. It is employed scripturally to describe unjust violence, the physical suffering of Jesus, and, in a significant figurative sense, the injury caused to a person's conscience. While often associated with sinful aggression, it is also used to portray the physical expression of profound grief and repentance, making it a term with a broad and impactful range of meaning.
TRV