Brief Overview of πεῖρα (Strong’s G3984: peira)

Strong’s G3984: A primary noun meaning trial, attempt, or experience. Used for testing through experience or attempting something. In NT context, appears in Hebrews discussing both faith attempts and trials. Carries connotations of experiential knowledge gained through testing or attempting.

U- Unveiling the Word

Πεῖρα represents the concept of gaining knowledge through experience or testing. In Hebrews, it describes both attempting actions in faith and experiencing trials. Early church writers understood it as expressing the experiential nature of faith development. Today, it reminds us that faith involves both active attempts and enduring trials.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πεῖρα, peira, [PAY-rah]
• Detailed pronunciation: PAY-rah (emphasis on first syllable)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• Primary root *per- (to try)
• Related to πειράζω (to test)
• Forms noun of experience/attempt
• Connected to Latin peritus (experienced)

D – Defining Meanings

• Trial, testing
• Attempt, endeavor
• Experience
• Experimental knowledge

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

Translation Options:

• Trial – When emphasizing testing aspect
• Attempt – When emphasizing effort
• Experience – When emphasizing knowledge gained

E – Exploring Similar Words

• πειρασμός [peirasmos, pay-ras-MOSS] – temptation/testing
• δοκιμή [dokimē, do-kee-MAY] – testing, proof
• ἐμπειρία [empeiria, em-pay-REE-ah] – experience

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

• First Declension
• Feminine Gender
• Nominative: πεῖρα
• Genitive: πείρας
• Dative: πείρᾳ
• Accusative: πεῖραν
• Cross-references: πειράζω (to test), ἐμπειρος (experienced)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes experiential aspect. Thayer’s notes both attempt and trial meanings. LSJ traces development in scientific contexts. Vine’s highlights its use in Hebrews. Moulton and Milligan show technical usage in papyri.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“By faith they passed through the Red Sea as by dry land, whereas the Egyptians, attempting [πεῖρα] to do so, were drowned.” (Hebrews 11:29)

Additional References:
Hebrews 11:36

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Πεῖρα teaches us that faith involves both active attempts and learned experience through trials. Like Israel crossing the Red Sea, true faith steps out in obedience while learning through experience. This encourages us that growth in Christ comes through both active faith and enduring trials.

D – Did You Know?

1. Used in ancient scientific method discussions
2. Key term in Greek educational theory
3. Influenced development of empirical terminology

Strong’s G3984: A primary noun meaning trial, attempt, or experience. Used for testing through experience or attempting something. In NT context, appears in Hebrews discussing both faith attempts and trials. Carries connotations of experiential knowledge gained through testing or attempting.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: #Trial #Experience #Testing #Faith #Attempt #Learning #Hebrews #Perseverance #BiblicalHistory #SpiritualGrowth​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​