Brief Overview of σκόλοψ (Strong’s G4647: skolops)

Strong’s G4647: A sharp stake or thorn, originally denoting anything pointed. In ancient Greek literature and New Testament usage, it metaphorically represents acute physical or mental distress. Most famously used by Paul to describe his “thorn in the flesh,” highlighting divine strength perfected in human weakness.

U- Unveiling the Word

σκόλοψ carries profound theological significance in its New Testament usage, particularly in Paul’s writings. While its primary meaning refers to a sharp stake or pointed object, its metaphorical application in 2 Corinthians 12:7 has sparked centuries of theological discussion. The word evokes imagery of something that causes constant pain or distress, yet serves a divine purpose. In ancient usage, it could refer to military fortifications or implements of torture, making Paul’s metaphorical application even more powerful. The early church understood this term as representing various forms of affliction that serve God’s purposes, a concept that remains deeply relevant for believers today who struggle with persistent challenges while trusting in God’s sufficient grace.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: σκόλοψ, skolops, /skŏl’-ops/
• Detailed pronunciation: Long ‘o’ as in “scope,” followed by ‘lops’ as in “cops”
• Part of Speech: Noun (Masculine)

Etymology:

• Root: σκολ- (skol-) – related to things that are sharp or pointed
• Suffix: -οψ (-ops) – common Greek nominal ending indicating concrete objects
• Related to Proto-Indo-European *(s)kel- meaning to cut

D – Defining Meanings

• A sharp stake or pointed piece of wood
• A thorn or splinter
• A metaphorical affliction or source of constant trouble

For compound words: Not a compound word, but the root σκολ- combines with the nominal suffix -οψ to form a concrete noun describing pointed objects.

Translation Options:

• “Thorn” – Best captures the metaphorical usage in NT context
• “Stake” – More literal translation reflecting original meaning
• “Splinter” – Captures the physical irritation aspect

E – Exploring Similar Words

• ἄκανθα (akantha) /ak’-an-thah/ – general word for thorn or prickly plant See G173
• τρίβολος (tribolos) /trib’-ol-os/ – specifically refers to thorny weeds See G5146
• παγίς (pagis) /pag-ece’/ – trap or snare, similar metaphorical usage See G3803

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Morphological features as a masculine noun:

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Gender: Masculine
• Declension: Third declension

Examples:

• Nominative: σκόλοψ (a thorn)
• Genitive: σκόλοπος (of a thorn)
• Dative: σκόλοπι (to/for a thorn)
• Accusative: σκόλοπα (direct object)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG defines σκόλοψ primarily as a pointed stake used in military fortifications, with secondary meanings including thorn or splinter. Thayer’s emphasizes its metaphorical usage in Paul’s writings. LSJ provides extensive classical usage examples, showing its evolution from military terminology to metaphorical applications. Vine’s connects it to divine discipline, while Moulton and Milligan provide papyri evidence of its use in common Greek. Strong’s emphasizes its basic meaning of something sharp or pointed, while LEH provides Septuagint usage examples where it often represents obstacles or afflictions.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn [σκόλοψ] in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.” 2 Corinthians 12:7

Additional References:
This is the only occurrence in the New Testament.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

σκόλοψ powerfully illustrates how God uses our weaknesses and afflictions for His glory. Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” reminds us that His grace is sufficient in our weakness, and that our struggles can serve a divine purpose. This word teaches us that even our most persistent challenges can become channels for displaying God’s power, encouraging believers to embrace their weaknesses as opportunities for experiencing Christ’s strength.

D – Did You Know?

1. The word σκόλοψ was commonly used in military contexts to describe defensive fortifications before its metaphorical usage in the New Testament.
2. The exact nature of Paul’s “thorn” has been debated for centuries, with suggestions ranging from physical ailments to spiritual struggles.
3. The term influenced early Christian martyrology literature, where it often symbolized the suffering of believers for Christ’s sake.

Strong’s G4647: A sharp stake or thorn, originally denoting anything pointed. In ancient Greek literature and New Testament usage, it metaphorically represents acute physical or mental distress. Most famously used by Paul to describe his “thorn in the flesh,” highlighting divine strength perfected in human weakness.

Part of speech: Noun (Masculine)

Tags: thorn, affliction, suffering, weakness, Paul, divine-strength, perseverance, grace, spiritual-warfare, physical-ailment, metaphor, military-terminology, ancient-greek, biblical-greek, new-testament​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​