### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **phragellóō**, represented by `{{G5417}}`, is defined as to **whip** or **lash as a public punishment**, often translated as **scourge**. This term is derived from a presumed equivalent of the Latin `flagellum`. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, highlighting its specific and significant role in the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Bible, `{{G5417}}` is used exclusively within the context of the Passion of Jesus Christ. Both occurrences describe the actions of Pontius Pilate just before the crucifixion. In [[Matthew 27:26]], Pilate released Barabbas and, after he had **scourged** Jesus, delivered Him to be crucified. [[Mark 15:15]] provides a parallel account, stating that Pilate, "willing to content the people," released Barabbas and **scourged** Jesus before handing Him over for crucifixion. In both instances, the act is a formal punishment preceding the cross.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are essential for understanding the context in which `{{G5417}}` appears:
* `{{G3860}}` **paradídōmi** (to surrender, i.e yield up, intrust, transmit): In both [[Matthew 27:26]] and [[Mark 15:15]], this action immediately follows the scourging, as Jesus is **delivered** up to be crucified.
* `{{G4717}}` **stauróō** (to impale on the cross; figuratively, to extinguish (subdue) passion or selfishness): This term defines the ultimate outcome of the scourging. Jesus was whipped as a prelude to being **crucified** ([[Matthew 27:26]], [[Mark 15:15]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5417}}` is found in its precise placement within the suffering of Christ.
* **A Formal Act of Punishment:** The term describes a specific, public lashing. The narrative in [[Mark 15:15]] notes that Pilate did this to "content the people," situating the scourging as an official, politically motivated act of punishment.
* **Prelude to the Cross:** The word is never used in isolation. In both of its biblical appearances, it is part of a sequence: Jesus is **scourged** `{{G5417}}`, then **delivered** `{{G3860}}`, and finally brought to be **crucified** `{{G4717}}`, emphasizing it as a step toward the ultimate atonement.
* **A Picture of Suffering:** By using this specific term, the Gospels underscore a distinct moment of Jesus's physical torment, demonstrating the brutal reality of the punishment He endured before His death.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5417}}` is a potent and specific term for a violent public punishment. Its use is focused entirely on the scourging of Jesus, an act carried out by Pilate as a direct precursor to the crucifixion. It is not an incidental detail but a crucial component of the Passion narrative, illustrating a key stage of Christ's suffering on the path to the cross.
TRV