Strong's Lexicon kentron: Sting, goad Original Word: κέντρον Word Origin: From the base of κεντέω (kenteō), meaning "to prick" or "to goad." Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent for "kentron," the concept of a goad or sting can be related to Hebrew words like דָּקַר (dāqar, Strong's H1856), meaning "to pierce" or "to stab." Usage: In the New Testament, "kentron" is used metaphorically to describe a sharp point or sting, often in the context of something that causes pain or provokes action. It can refer to the sting of an insect or the pointed end of a goad used to drive animals. The term is used to convey the idea of something that incites or provokes, often with a negative connotation. Cultural and Historical Background: In ancient agricultural societies, a goad was a pointed stick used to drive oxen or other animals during plowing. The sharp end would prod the animal to move forward. This imagery was familiar to the original audience of the New Testament, who would understand the metaphorical use of "kentron" as something that provokes or causes discomfort. Additionally, the sting of insects was a common experience, symbolizing sudden pain or irritation. NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom kenteó (to prick) Definition a sharp point NASB Translation goads (1), sting (2), stings (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 2759: κέντρονκέντρον, κέντρου, τό (κεντέω to prick); 1. a sting, as that of bees (4 Macc. 14:19), scorpions, locusts, Revelation 9:10. Since animals wound by their sting and even cause death, Paul in 1 Corinthians 15:55 (after Hosea 13:14, the Sept.) attributes to death, personified, a κέντρον, i. e. a deadly weapon, and that κέντρον is said to be ἡ ἁμαρτία (56), because sin is death's cause and punishment (?) (Romans 5:12). 2. as in the Greek writings an iron goad, for urging on oxen, horses and other beasts of burden; hence, the proverb πρός κέντρα λακτίζειν, to kick against the goad, i. e. to offer vain and perilous or ruinous resistance: Acts 9:5 Rec.; From kenteo (to prick); a point ("centre"), i.e. A sting (figuratively, poison) or goad (figuratively, divine impulse) -- prick, sting. Englishman's Concordance Acts 9:5 Noun-ANPGRK: σοι πρὸς κέντρα λακτίζειν KJV: to kick against the pricks. INT: for you against [the] goads to kick Acts 26:14 N-ANP 1 Corinthians 15:55 N-NNS 1 Corinthians 15:56 N-NNS Revelation 9:10 N-ANP Strong's Greek 2759 |