### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **bláptō**, represented by `{{G984}}`, is a primary verb that means to hinder or, by implication, to injure or **hurt**. Despite its impactful meaning, it is used sparingly in scripture, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**. Its usage highlights moments of supernatural protection and authority over harmful forces.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{G984}}` is used to describe the negation of harm in dramatic circumstances. In Mark, it appears in the context of the Great Commission, where Jesus promises that believers will handle **serpents** and drink deadly things but "it shall not **hurt** them" [[Mark 16:18]]. The second instance is during an exorcism, where Jesus commands a devil out of a man. The demon throws the man down but leaves without being able to **hurt** him, demonstrating Christ's superior power [[Luke 4:35]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the scenarios where harm is prevented:
* `{{G2008}}` **epitimáō** (rebuke): This word describes the authoritative command Jesus gives to the demon immediately before it departs without causing injury, as seen when He **rebuked** the spirit [[Luke 4:35]].
* `{{G2286}}` **thanásimos** (deadly): This adjective describes the nature of the poison that believers are promised protection from. They can drink a **deadly** thing, and it will not hurt them [[Mark 16:18]].
* `{{G3789}}` **óphis** (serpent): This word represents a direct physical threat that believers are protected from. The promise is that they will take up **serpents** without being hurt [[Mark 16:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G984}}` is concentrated in its two appearances, emphasizing divine power over injury.
* **Supernatural Preservation:** The word is used to underscore a promise of divine protection for those who follow Christ. This is not merely avoiding discomfort but being shielded from things that would naturally cause severe injury or death [[Mark 16:18]].
* **Authority Over Demonic Power:** In the exorcism account, the fact that the demon could not **hurt** the man is a key detail. It demonstrates that even in a violent spiritual confrontation, Christ's authority is absolute and serves to protect the individual from the malicious intent of evil forces [[Luke 4:35]].
* **The Negation of Harm:** In both verses, the verb is used in a negative construction ("shall not hurt," "hurt him not"). This highlights that the primary point is the *prevention* or *cancellation* of an expected harmful outcome by a higher power.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G984}}` is a rare but potent word that means to **hurt** or injure. Its two uses in the New Testament are powerful illustrations of God's protective power. Whether shielding believers from physical dangers like poison or **serpents**, or preventing a demonic entity from harming a person during an exorcism, **bláptō** serves to highlight an authority that can completely hinder and negate harm.
TRV