Brief Overview of πάσχω (Strong’s G3958: paschō)

Strong’s G3958: A primary verb meaning to experience a sensation or impression (usually painful). In NT usage, it often refers to suffering, particularly Christ’s sacrificial suffering. Used metaphorically for experiencing any emotion or sensation. Theologically significant in discussions of Christ’s passion and Christian suffering.

U- Unveiling the Word

Πάσχω primarily denotes experiencing something, usually suffering or hardship. In the New Testament, it takes on profound theological significance, especially regarding Christ’s redemptive suffering. The early church saw πάσχω as central to Christian identity, viewing suffering for Christ as a privilege (Philippians 1:29). Today, it remains crucial for understanding both Christ’s work and the Christian experience of suffering with purpose.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πάσχω, paschō, [PAS-khō]
• Detailed pronunciation: PAWS-kho (with aspirated ‘kh’)
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• Root word: παθ- (path-)
• Related to πάθος (pathos)
• Indo-European root *kwenth- (to suffer)

D – Defining Meanings

• To suffer, endure hardship
• To experience (generally)
• To be affected by something
• To undergo treatment

For compound words: Not applicable as this is a primary verb

Translation Options:

• Suffer – Most common in contexts of hardship
• Experience – Neutral contexts of sensation
• Endure – Emphasizing the duration aspect

E – Exploring Similar Words

• παθητός [pathētos, path-ay-TOS] – liable to suffer
• συμπάσχω [sympaschō, sym-PAS-khō] – to suffer together
• ὑπομένω [hypomenō, hoo-po-MEN-o] – to endure

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

• Present Active Indicative: πάσχω
• Future: πείσομαι
• Aorist: ἔπαθον
• Perfect: πέπονθα

These forms show:

• Irregular verb patterns
• Deponent future form
• Strong aorist formation
• Cross-references: πάθημα (suffering), πάθος (passion)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its range from neutral experience to suffering. Thayer’s notes its frequent use for painful experiences. LSJ traces its development from general experience to specifically suffering. Vine’s highlights its theological significance in relation to Christ’s passion. Moulton and Milligan document its use in papyri for medical conditions.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“From that time Jesus began to show to His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem, and suffer [πάσχω] many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised the third day.” (Matthew 16:21)

Additional References:
Luke 24:26, Acts 1:3, 1 Peter 2:21, Hebrews 2:18

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Πάσχω reveals the profound reality that suffering can have redemptive purpose. Christ’s suffering brings salvation, and believers’ suffering can participate in His redemptive work. This transforms our understanding of hardship from meaningless pain to purposeful participation in God’s story.

D – Did You Know?

1. The English word ‘pathos’ derives from the same root as πάσχω
2. The term became technical in early Christian martyrdom accounts
3. It’s the root of modern medical terms like ‘pathology’

Strong’s G3958: A primary verb meaning to experience a sensation or impression (usually painful). In NT usage, it often refers to suffering, particularly Christ’s sacrificial suffering. Used metaphorically for experiencing any emotion or sensation. Theologically significant in discussions of Christ’s passion and Christian suffering.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: #Suffering #ChristianSuffering #Passion #Experience #Endurance #Martyrdom #Crucifixion #Redemption #ChristianLife #Persecution #Discipleship​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​