### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **basanistḗs**, represented by `{{G930}}`, is defined as a **torturer** or **tormentor**. It is derived from the word βασανίζω. According to usage statistics, it is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the biblical text, making its single appearance highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G930}}` is found in [[Matthew 18:34]]. In this verse, a **lord** becomes angry, or "wroth," over an unpaid debt and consequently "delivered him to the **tormentors**" until the entire amount was paid. The word here describes an agent of punishment, an individual tasked with inflicting suffering as a direct consequence of a master's judgment. The context explicitly links the appearance of the **tormentors** to the wrath of an authority figure.
### Related Words & Concepts
The verse where `{{G930}}` appears contains several related Greek words that provide crucial context:
* `{{G2962}}` **kýrios**: This word for **lord** or **master** denotes one who is "supreme in authority." It is the **lord** in [[Matthew 18:34]] who holds the power to command the tormentors.
* `{{G3710}}` **orgízō**: Defined as "to provoke or enrage," this is translated as "was wroth" in the verse. The lord's anger is the direct trigger for his decision to hand the man over to the **tormentors**.
* `{{G3860}}` **paradídōmi**: This word means "to surrender, i.e yield up, intrust, transmit." In [[Matthew 18:34]], it is the action of being **delivered** over, signifying a complete surrender of the individual into the hands of those who will carry out the punishment.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G930}}` is established through its context and associated terms.
* **Authority and Consequence:** The appearance of the **tormentor** is not a random act but a direct consequence of the wrath of a **lord** `{{G2962}}`. This establishes a clear biblical theme where authoritative judgment leads to severe consequences.
* **The Act of Delivering Over:** The term for "delivered," `{{G3860}}` **paradídōmi**, carries immense significance. It is used elsewhere to describe God delivering His Son for humanity [[Romans 8:32]] and Christ giving himself [[Galatians 2:20]]. Its use in [[Matthew 18:34]] frames the delivery to the **tormentors** as a profound and total act of surrendering someone to their fate.
* **Wrath and Judgment:** The word **orgízō** `{{G3710}}`, to be angry or wroth, is linked to the actions of kings, masters, and even God [[Revelation 11:18]]. This connection highlights that the punishment carried out by the **tormentors** is a result of righteous anger against a wrong committed.
### Summary
In summary, **basanistḗs** `{{G930}}` is more than just a label for a torturer; it represents the instrument of punishment enacted by an offended authority. Though used only once, its placement in [[Matthew 18:34]] provides a powerful illustration of judgment, showing how a **lord's** wrath (**orgízō**) leads to an individual being **delivered** (**paradídōmi**) to face severe repercussions for their actions.
TRV