Brief Overview of πικρία (Strong’s G4088: pikria)

Strong’s G4088: A noun meaning “bitterness,” both literally and figuratively. In biblical contexts, represents spiritual and emotional toxicity, particularly relating to resentment, unforgiveness, and hostility toward God and others. Often used metaphorically to describe spiritual condition.

U- Unveiling the Word

Πικρία (pikria) denotes bitterness in its fullest sense. While originating from the concept of bitter taste, it primarily appears in Scripture to describe spiritual and emotional toxicity. In the New Testament, it represents a poisonous spiritual condition that affects both the individual and community. Early church writers understood this term as describing a spiritual disease requiring Christ’s healing. Today, it continues to warn believers about the destructive nature of harbored resentment and unforgiveness.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πικρία, pikria, pik-ree’-ah
• Detailed pronunciation: pik (as in “pick”) + ree (as in “ree”) + ah (as in “ah”)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:
From πικρός (pikros) meaning “sharp, pointed, bitter”

D – Defining Meanings

• Bitterness
• Resentment
• Acrimony
• Spiritual poison
• Deep-seated anger

Translation Options:

1. Bitterness – captures both literal and metaphorical meaning
2. Resentment – emphasizes emotional aspect
3. Spiritual poison – reflects harmful nature

E – Exploring Similar Words

• χολή (cholē) [khol-ay’] – gall, more physical
• ὀργή (orgē) [or-gay’] – wrath, more active
• ἀγανάκτησις (aganaktēsis) [ag-an-ak’-tay-sis] – indignation

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Noun Features:

• Case: Nominative, Accusative, Genitive, Dative
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Gender: Feminine
• First Declension

Example forms:
Nominative singular: πικρία
Genitive singular: πικρίας
Dative plural: πικρίαις

Cross-references:

• Adjective: πικρός (bitter)
• Verb: πικραίνω (to make bitter)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its spiritual-moral significance. Thayer’s notes its progression from physical to spiritual meaning. LSJ documents both literal and metaphorical uses. Vine’s connects it to spiritual corruption. Strong’s highlights its poisonous nature. Moulton and Milligan note its use in describing character.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:

“For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness [πικρία] and in the bond of iniquity.” (Acts 8:23)

Additional References:
Romans 3:14
Ephesians 4:31
Hebrews 12:15

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Πικρία powerfully illustrates the destructive nature of unresolved resentment. The good news of King Jesus includes freedom from this spiritual poison through His forgiveness and grace. This word reminds us that bitterness is incompatible with the new life in Christ and must be replaced with His love and forgiveness.

D – Did You Know?

1. Ancient medical texts used it to describe poisonous substances.
2. Early Christian baptismal liturgies included renouncing πικρία.
3. Influenced development of Christian counseling principles.

Strong’s G4088: A noun describing deep-seated bitterness and resentment, particularly in spiritual contexts. Used to identify toxic spiritual conditions that poison relationships with God and others, requiring Christ’s healing intervention.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: #bitterness #resentment #poison #healing #forgiveness #spiritual #Acts #Paul #NewTestament #BiblicalGreek #Theology #transformation​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​