### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **básanos**, represented by `{{G931}}`, refers to **torment**. Derived from a term meaning touch-stone, it is used by analogy for torture. The word appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, signifying specific forms of intense suffering.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The use of `{{G931}}` occurs in two distinct contexts. In the Gospel of Matthew, **torments** are listed among a group of severe physical and mental afflictions that people suffered. These are presented alongside **diseases** `{{G3554}}`, being **possessed with devils** `{{G1139}}`, and paralysis, all of which Jesus healed [[Matthew 4:24]]. In Luke's Gospel, the word describes the state of the rich man after death, who is "in **torments**" `{{G931}}` while in **hell** `{{G86}}` [[Luke 16:23]]. He later refers to this realm as a "place of **torment**" from which he wishes to warn his brothers [[Luke 16:28]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which **básanos** is used:
* `{{G3554}}` **nósos**: This word for **disease**, defined as a malady or sickness, appears with `{{G931}}` in a list of afflictions Jesus healed [[Matthew 4:24]].
* `{{G1139}}` **daimonízomai**: Meaning **to be exercised by a dæmon**, this term is used for those possessed with devils and is listed alongside those in **torments** in the catalog of ailments brought to Jesus [[Matthew 4:24]].
* `{{G86}}` **háidēs**: Defined as "the place (state) of departed souls," this is the location where the rich man experiences **torments** `{{G931}}`, linking the term directly to a state of suffering after death [[Luke 16:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G931}}` is tied to its distinct uses:
* **Christ's Authority Over Suffering:** In Matthew, **torments** are presented as a category of profound human affliction that Christ has the power to heal. This demonstrates his authority over every form of suffering people experienced, from sickness to demonic oppression [[Matthew 4:24]].
* **Conscious State After Death:** In Luke, the word provides a depiction of the afterlife. It describes **torment** as a conscious experience of suffering in **hell** `{{G86}}`, serving as a stark warning within the parable of the rich man and Lazarus ([[Luke 16:23]], [[Luke 16:28]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G931}}` is a specific term for severe suffering. While it can describe extreme earthly afflictions that are subject to Christ's healing power, its most prominent theological use is to define the conscious state of **torment** experienced after death in **hell** (Hades). The word thus highlights both the scope of Jesus' earthly ministry and the reality of suffering in the afterlife.
TRV