Lexical Summary skulló: To trouble, to harass, to distress Original Word: σκύλλω Strong's Exhaustive Concordance trouble, annoyApparently a primary verb; to flay, i.e. (figuratively) to harass -- trouble(self). HELPS Word-studies 4660 skýllō (from skylon, "skin, pelt") – properly, skin alive, mangle (flay); (figuratively) harass, extremely annoy. NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Origina prim. verb Definition to skin, fig. to trouble NASB Translation distressed (1), trouble (3). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 4660: σκύλλωσκύλλω; perfect passive participle ἐσκυλμενος; present middle imperative 2 person singular σκύλλου; (σκῦλον, which see); a. to skin, flay (Anthol.). b. to rend, mangle (Aeschylus Pers. 577); to vex, trouble, annoy (Herodian, 7, 3, 9 (4)): τινα, Mark 5:35; Luke 8:49; passive, ἐσκυλμένοι (Vulg.vexati) (R. V. distressed), Matthew 9:36 G L T Tr WH; middle to give oneself trouble, trouble oneself: μή σκύλλου, Luke 7:6. Strong’s Greek 4660 (skýllō) paints a vivid picture that moves from the literal idea of flaying or skinning to the figurative experience of being vexed, harassed, or pressed upon. In the Gospels this shift is evident as the term describes both the spiritual distress of crowds and the practical inconvenience of requesting further help from Jesus. Each occurrence deepens our understanding of the Savior’s compassion and the faith responses invited by His presence. Occurrences in the New Testament 1. Matthew 9:36 “When He saw the crowds, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” “Do not trouble the Teacher anymore.” 3. Luke 7:6 “Lord, do not trouble Yourself, for I am not worthy to have You come under my roof.” Theological Themes Compassionate Shepherd Matthew 9:36 connects skýllō to the pastoral imagery of sheep without a shepherd. Throughout Scripture God presents Himself as the faithful Shepherd (Psalm 23; Ezekiel 34:11-16). Jesus’ compassion answers the prophetic promise by gathering, guiding, and guarding those harried by sin and poor leadership. Faith That Refuses to Relent The warnings not to “trouble” Jesus (Luke 8:49; Mark 5:35) unintentionally highlight His willingness to bear burdens. Far from being annoyed, Jesus invites persistent faith (Luke 18:1-8). The raising of Jairus’s daughter validates believers who continue seeking Him beyond natural hope. Servant Authority In Luke 7:6 the centurion’s appeal illustrates that Christ’s authority is effective irrespective of physical distance. Divine power flows through faithful command. Skýllō therefore frames the story: the centurion does not wish to impose, yet Jesus demonstrates that His lordship cannot be overtaxed. Historical and Pastoral Significance Early Christian preachers often drew contrasts between oppressive human rule and the gentle lordship of Christ. Origen and Chrysostom, for example, linked Matthew 9:36 to Ezekiel’s indictment of false shepherds, urging pastors to guard against “skinning” the flock through greed or neglect. The term also shaped pastoral counseling. Believers wearied by persecution found comfort in knowing that Jesus’ compassion extends to the “harassed” of every age. Likewise, congregations learned that earnest prayer never “troubles” the Lord but delights Him (Hebrews 4:16). Ministry Applications 1. Shepherding the Harassed 2. Encouraging Persistent Prayer 3. Modeling Humble Faith Related Biblical Motifs • Shepherd and Sheep: Psalm 23; John 10:1-18 Englishman's Concordance Matthew 9:36 V-RPM/P-NMPGRK: ὅτι ἦσαν ἐσκυλμένοι καὶ ἐρριμμένοι NAS: for them, because they were distressed and dispirited INT: because they were wearied and cast away Mark 5:35 V-PIA-2S Luke 7:6 V-PMM/P-2S Luke 8:49 V-PMA-2S Strong's Greek 4660 |
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