Lexicon
pikrós: Bitter
Original Word: πικρός
Part of Speech: Adverb
Transliteration: pikrós
Pronunciation: pik-ros'
Phonetic Spelling: (pik-roce')
Definition: Bitter
Meaning: bitterly.
Strong's Exhaustive Concordance
bitterly.
Adverb from pikros; bitterly, i.e. (figuratively) violently -- bitterly.
see GREEK pikros
NAS Exhaustive Concordance
Word Originadverb from
pikrosDefinitionbitterly
NASB Translationbitterly (2).
Thayer's Greek Lexicon
STRONGS NT 4090: πικρῶςπικρῶς, adverb (from
Aeschylus down),
bitterly: metaphorically,
ἔκλαυσε, i. e. with poignant grief,
Matthew 26:75;
Luke 22:62 (here
WH brackets the clause); cf.
πικρόν δάκρυον,
Homer, Odyssey 4, 153.
Topical Lexicon
Word Origin: Derived from the root word πέκω (pékō), meaning "to cut" or "to prick."Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: • H4751 (מַר, mar): Often translated as "bitter" in the Old Testament, used to describe both taste and emotional states.
• H4844 (מָרָה, marah): Meaning "bitterness," used to describe the bitterness of soul or spirit.
• H7219 (רֹאשׁ, rosh): Refers to a bitter or poisonous plant, metaphorically used for bitterness or calamity.
These Hebrew terms reflect similar themes of bitterness found in the Greek "πικρός," emphasizing the continuity of this concept throughout the biblical narrative.
Usage: The word "πικρός" is used in the New Testament to describe both physical bitterness, such as the taste of something, and metaphorical bitterness, such as feelings of resentment or harshness. It appears in contexts that highlight the negative or unpleasant nature of bitterness.
Context: The Greek word "πικρός" is used in the New Testament to convey the concept of bitterness in both a literal and figurative sense. In the literal sense, it describes the taste of something that is sharp or unpleasant, akin to the taste of bitter herbs. This usage is less common in the New Testament.
More frequently, "πικρός" is employed metaphorically to describe a state of emotional or spiritual bitterness. This can refer to feelings of resentment, anger, or harshness that can take root in a person's heart. The New Testament warns against allowing such bitterness to grow, as it can lead to division and strife within the community of believers.
For example, in James 3:14, the term is used to caution against harboring "bitter envy and selfish ambition" in one's heart, which can lead to disorder and every evil practice. The apostle James contrasts this with the wisdom that comes from above, which is pure, peace-loving, and considerate.
The concept of bitterness is also addressed in Hebrews 12:15, where believers are urged to see to it that no "bitter root" grows up to cause trouble and defile many. This metaphorical use underscores the destructive potential of bitterness if left unchecked.
In a broader theological context, bitterness is seen as a condition that can hinder one's relationship with God and others. It is often associated with unforgiveness and a lack of reconciliation, which are contrary to the teachings of Christ. Believers are encouraged to seek healing and restoration through the grace and forgiveness offered in the gospel.
Forms and Transliterations
πικρως πικρώς πικρῶς pikros pikrôs pikrōs pikrō̂sLinks
Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts
