### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ōdínō**, represented by `{{G5605}}`, means to experience the pains of parturition, or childbirth. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is used both literally to describe the physical act of giving birth and figuratively to convey intense spiritual struggle and effort.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5605}}` is used to illustrate profound spiritual realities. The Apostle Paul uses it metaphorically in his letter to the Galatians, stating, "I **travail in birth** again until Christ be formed in you" [[Galatians 4:19]], equating his pastoral anguish with labor pains. In the same letter, it appears in a quotation contrasting a barren woman who does not **travailest** with one who has many children [[Galatians 4:27]]. The most vivid use is in Revelation, where a woman "with child cried, **travailing in birth**, and pained to be delivered" [[Revelation 12:2]], depicting a moment of cosmic and prophetic significance.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of `{{G5605}}` and the theme of childbirth:
* `{{G5088}}` **tíktō** (to produce... literally or figuratively): This word for bringing forth or being delivered is a direct counterpart to travailing. It appears alongside `{{G5605}}` to complete the birth process, as in being "pained to be **delivered**" [[Revelation 12:2]].
* `{{G1064}}` **gastḗr** (the stomach; by analogy, the matrix): This term for the womb or being "with child" establishes the physical state that precedes the pain of travail, as seen in the woman "being with **child**" who then travails in birth [[Revelation 12:2]].
* `{{G2896}}` **krázō** (to... scream, i.e. ... to call aloud): This word describes the audible expression of the pain associated with `{{G5605}}`. The woman in the vision **cried** out while she was travailing [[Revelation 12:2]].
* `{{G928}}` **basanízō** (to torture): This word for being tormented or pained emphasizes the severity of the suffering. It is used in parallel with `{{G5605}}` to describe the woman as "pained to be delivered" [[Revelation 12:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5605}}` is significant despite its infrequent use. It powerfully illustrates several key concepts:
* **Apostolic Suffering:** Paul’s use of the term elevates pastoral concern to the level of birth pangs. It frames the work of ministry not as a simple task, but as an agonizing, creative process to bring believers to spiritual maturity in Christ [[Galatians 4:19]].
* **Prophetic Reversal:** The word is used in a quotation about the barren woman rejoicing, linking the concept of travail to the fulfillment of God's promises and the joyful reversal of a desolate condition [[Galatians 4:27]].
* **Apocalyptic Conflict:** In Revelation, the act of travailing becomes a sign of a pivotal moment in redemptive history. The pain described is not merely physical but part of a great spiritual and cosmic struggle preceding a significant birth [[Revelation 12:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5605}}` is a highly specific and potent term. While used only three times, it vividly communicates the concept of intense, productive pain. It serves as a powerful metaphor for the agonizing effort of spiritual formation and as a dramatic symbol of the suffering that precedes moments of great prophetic and apocalyptic importance. The word bridges the gap between a universal human experience and profound theological truth.
TRV