### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ará**, represented by `{{G685}}`, defines a **curse** or an **imprecation**. According to its base definition, the word stems from the idea of a prayer being lifted to Heaven, but in its biblical usage, it carries the negative implication of a curse. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the New Testament.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G685}}` is in [[Romans 3:14]], which states, "Whose **mouth** is full of **cursing** and bitterness." This verse is part of a description of the sinful state of humanity. The context portrays a condition where speech, originating from the **mouth** `{{G4750}}`, is not merely flawed but is completely **full** `{{G1073}}` of both **cursing** `{{G685}}` and its companion, **bitterness** `{{G4088}}`. This single use powerfully connects corrupt language directly to a corrupt inner disposition.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its biblical context help illuminate the meaning of `{{G685}}`:
* `{{G4750}}` **stóma** (the mouth; by implication, language): This is the physical source from which the curse emanates. Its usage highlights the biblical concept that speech reveals the state of the heart, as what fills the heart is spoken by the **mouth** [[Luke 6:45]].
* `{{G1073}}` **gémō** (to swell out, i.e. be full): This term emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the corruption. The mouth is not just sprinkled with curses but is completely filled, indicating a state of being overcome. A similar usage describes an inward part that is **full** of wickedness [[Luke 11:39]].
* `{{G4088}}` **pikría** (acridity... bitterness): This word is explicitly paired with **ará** in [[Romans 3:14]]. It defines the inner poison that fuels the curse, linking hateful speech to a deep-seated spiritual condition. It can be seen as a "root of **bitterness**" that defiles [[Hebrews 12:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G685}}` is demonstrated in its singular, impactful use.
* **Expression of a Fallen Nature:** The word is used to characterize the speech of sinful humanity. The mouth being "full of cursing and bitterness" is presented as a symptom of a deeper, universal spiritual sickness [[Romans 3:14]].
* **Corruption of Speech:** While the root concept of **ará** relates to prayer, its use as "imprecation" shows language being twisted from its highest purpose (communion with God) into a tool for destruction and contempt.
* **Link Between Inner State and Outer Action:** The pairing of **cursing** `{{G685}}` with **bitterness** `{{G4088}}` is theologically significant. It teaches that sinful acts, like cursing, are not isolated incidents but are the external fruit of an internal root of bitterness.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G685}}` is a concise and powerful term for **curse**. Though it appears only once, its placement in [[Romans 3:14]] gives it significant weight, serving as a key descriptor of humanity's fallen state. It illustrates that sinful language is an overflow of a heart filled with bitterness, fundamentally corrupting the God-given capacity for speech.
TRV