Brief Overview of σκώληξ (Strong’s G4663: skōlēx)

Strong’s G4663: A noun meaning worm, particularly associated with decay and corruption. In NT usage, appears in Jesus’s warning about hell (though Mark 9:44 and 46 are textually disputed, with 9:48 being secure), quoting Isaiah to describe eternal punishment. Symbolizes endless corruption and suffering.

U- Unveiling the Word

σκώληξ represents more than just a physical worm; it carries deep theological significance, particularly in contexts of judgment and corruption. In Mark’s Gospel, Jesus quotes from Isaiah 66:24, using this term to describe the eternal nature of hell’s torment. The image of the undying worm became a powerful symbol in early Christian teaching about eternal judgment. Early church fathers extensively used this term when discussing the reality of divine judgment and the eternal consequences of rejecting Christ. Today, it continues to serve as a sobering reminder of the reality of judgment and the importance of responding to Christ’s offer of salvation.

N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: σκώληξ, skōlēx, /sko’-lakes/
• Detailed pronunciation: ‘sko’ as in “score,” ‘lakes’ as in “lakes”
• Part of Speech: Noun (Masculine)

Etymology:

• Root: σκωλ- (skōl-) – possibly from Proto-Indo-European *(s)kwol- (to twist, turn)
• Suffix: -ηξ (-ēx) – common noun ending
• Basic noun with no prefix or compound elements

D – Defining Meanings

• Worm, particularly associated with decay
• Maggot or grub
• Symbol of corruption and decay
• Metaphor for endless torment

For compound words: Not a compound word, but forms the basis for compounds like σκωληκόβρωτος

Translation Options:

• “Worm” – General translation capturing basic meaning
• “Maggot” – More specific to context of decay
• “Grub” – Alternative emphasizing larvae aspect

E – Exploring Similar Words

• εὐλή (eulē) /yoo-lay’/ – worm, maggot See G2145
• σής (sēs) /sace/ – moth that corrupts See G4597
• σαπρός (sapros) /sap-ros’/ – rotten, corrupted See G4550

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a masculine noun:

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

Examples:

• Nominative: σκώληξ (worm)
• Genitive: σκώληκος (of a worm)
• Dative: σκώληκι (to/for a worm)
• Accusative: σκώληκα (worm as object)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its use in judgment contexts. Thayer’s notes its connection to Isaiah’s prophecy. LSJ provides examples from natural history writings. Vine’s highlights its metaphorical significance in eternal punishment. Strong’s connects it to corruption and decay. Moulton and Milligan document its common usage in agricultural contexts. LEH traces its significant role in Septuagint judgment passages.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“Where their worm [σκώληξ] dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.” Mark 9:44 (Note: This verse, along with v.46, is textually disputed, with v.48 being the secure attestation of this saying)

Additional References:
Mark 9:46
Mark 9:48

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

σκώληξ powerfully illustrates the eternal consequences of rejecting Christ. While its imagery is severe, it promotes the Gospel by highlighting the serious nature of sin and the necessity of salvation through Christ. It reminds us that Jesus’s warnings about judgment come from His love and desire for all to be saved.

D – Did You Know?

1. The term appears in ancient medical texts describing various parasitic conditions.
2. Early Christian art sometimes depicted σκώληξ in judgment scenes.
3. The word influenced medieval descriptions of hell and divine punishment.

Strong’s G4663: A masculine noun for worm, particularly associated with decay and judgment. In NT usage (though textually complex in Mark), quotes Isaiah to describe eternal punishment. Represents the enduring nature of divine judgment and the corruption of sin.

Part of speech: Noun (Masculine)

Tags: worm, judgment, hell, eternal-punishment, decay, corruption, mark, jesus-teaching, warning, salvation, biblical-greek, new-testament, eschatology, textual-criticism​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​