The Greek word adēmonéō, represented by G85, describes a state of deep mental distress. Derived from a word meaning to be sated to loathing, its base definition is to be in distress of mind, translated as be full of heaviness or be very heavy. It appears only 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible, signifying its use for moments of profound anguish.
In the biblical narrative, G85 is used to convey an intense emotional burden. It is most notably used to describe Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, where he began "to be sorrowful and very heavy" Matthew 26:37 and "to be sore amazed, and to be very heavy" Mark 14:33. The word also depicts the state of Epaphroditus, who "was full of heaviness" not because of his own sickness, but because the believers in Philippi had heard he was sick and would be worried Philippians 2:26.
Several related Greek words help clarify the specific nature of the distress conveyed by G85:
- G3076 lypéō (to distress; reflexively or passively, to be sad): This word is used in direct parallel with G85 to describe Jesus's emotional state in Gethsemane, as he "began to be sorrowful and very heavy" Matthew 26:37.
- G1568 ekthambéō (to astonish utterly): Paired with G85 in Mark's account of Gethsemane, this term suggests that the heaviness Jesus experienced included a component of shock or profound amazement Mark 14:33.
- G770 asthenéō (to be feeble): This word provides the context for the use of G85 in Philippians. Epaphroditus's heaviness was caused by the Philippians hearing that he "had been sick" Philippians 2:26, showing a deep distress rooted in concern for others.
The theological weight of G85 is significant, revealing aspects of Christ's nature and the character of Christian fellowship.
- The Humanity of Christ: The use of this term to describe Jesus in Gethsemane powerfully illustrates the depth of his human suffering. It portrays an authentic mental and emotional anguish, showing he was not detached from the sorrow of his impending sacrifice (Matthew 26:37, Mark 14:33).
- Empathetic Concern: In the account of Epaphroditus, G85 highlights a selfless distress. His heaviness was not for his own condition but for the grief his friends would feel, establishing a model of deep, empathetic care within the community of believers Philippians 2:26.
In summary, G85 is a rare but potent term for extreme mental distress. Though used only three times, it captures both the profound sorrow and anguish of Christ in the face of the cross and the ideal of selfless, compassionate concern that should exist between believers. It reveals a heaviness of spirit that can arise from one's own trials or from a deep love for others.
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