The Greek word cholḗ, represented by G5521, refers to "gall" or bile. According to its base definition, it can denote poison or an anodyne substance like wormwood or poppy. This word appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible.
The word G5521 is used both literally and figuratively in scripture. In a literal sense, it describes a substance offered to Jesus during the crucifixion, where soldiers gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall Matthew 27:34. Figuratively, it is used to characterize a state of profound spiritual corruption, as when Peter perceives a person to be in the "gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity" Acts 8:23.
Several related words help clarify the meaning of G5521 in its contexts:
- G3690 óxos (vinegar): Defined as "vinegar, i.e. sour wine," this word is directly paired with gall in the drink offered to Jesus on the cross Matthew 27:34.
- G4088 pikría (bitterness): Meaning "acridity (especially poison), literally or figuratively," this term is used with gall to describe a state of deep-seated sinfulness Acts 8:23.
- G4886 sýndesmos (bond): This word, meaning "a joint tie, i.e. ligament, (figuratively) uniting principle, control," is used alongside gall to illustrate being trapped, specifically in "the bond of iniquity" Acts 8:23.
The theological weight of G5521 is demonstrated in its two distinct applications.
- Symbol of Suffering: The offering of gall G5521 mingled with vinegar G3690 to Jesus represents a moment of intense suffering and mockery during the crucifixion narrative Matthew 27:34.
- Metaphor for Moral Corruption: In the book of Acts, gall is used metaphorically to diagnose a spiritual condition. Being "in the gall of bitterness" G4088 is equated with being held in "the bond" G4886 of "iniquity" G93 Acts 8:23.
- Conscious Rejection: Jesus's refusal to drink G4095 the mixture of vinegar and gall signifies a conscious choice. The base definition of gall includes "anodyne," suggesting he rejected a substance that could have dulled his senses Matthew 27:34.
In summary, cholḗ G5521, though appearing only twice, carries significant weight. It functions both as a literal, bitter substance associated with the physical suffering of Christ, and as a powerful metaphor for the poisonous nature of sin and spiritual corruption. Its use in scripture highlights themes of suffering, rejection, and the deep-seated nature of iniquity.
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