Divine Discipline: τύπτω (Strong’s G5180: typtō) Reveals Redemptive Correction

Strong’s G5180: A primary verb meaning to strike, beat, or smite, often used metaphorically in Scripture to describe disciplinary action or spiritual conviction. In biblical context, it frequently appears in passages about divine discipline or human mistreatment, highlighting both justice and mercy.

U – Unveiling the Word

The Greek verb τύπτω fundamentally means “to strike” or “to beat,” carrying both literal and metaphorical significance in biblical usage. Its primary meaning involves physical striking, but it develops profound theological meaning when used to describe divine discipline or conviction of conscience. In the New Testament, τύπτω appears in contexts ranging from the physical abuse of the Messiah to the spiritual conviction of the heart. The early church understood this word as representing both the reality of persecution and the necessity of divine correction. Today, it reminds us that spiritual growth often involves painful but purposeful discipline from our loving Father.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: τύπτω, typtō, /ˈtyp.tɔː/
• Pronunciation: TOOP-toh
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• Root word: τυπ- (typ-) primitive root meaning “to strike”
• Suffix: -τω (-tō) primary verb ending
• Function: Forms a primary verb indicating direct action

D – Defining Meanings

• To strike or beat physically
• To smite or wound
• To afflict or punish
• To strike one’s conscience
• To bring conviction

For compound words: Not applicable as τύπτω is not a compound word

Translation Options:

• “Strike” – Best captures the physical action
• “Beat” – Emphasizes repeated action
• “Smite” – Carries both physical and spiritual connotations

E – Exploring Similar Words

• πατάσσω (patassō, /paˈtas.sɔː/) – to strike with force or violence See G3960
• πλήσσω (plēssō, /ˈpleːs.sɔː/) – to strike or smite See G4141
• δέρω (derō, /ˈde.rɔː/) – to flay, beat, scourge See G1194

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Verb Features:

• Tense: Present, Future, Aorist
• Voice: Active, Passive
• Mood: Indicative, Subjunctive, Participle
• Person: First, Second, Third
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Aspect: Progressive, Punctiliar

Examples:

• Present Active: τύπτω (I strike)
• Future Active: τύψω (I will strike)
• Aorist Active: ἔτυψα (I struck)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

Lexical sources provide rich insight into τύπτω’s usage and significance. BDAG emphasizes its range from literal striking to metaphorical affliction. Thayer’s highlights its frequent use in disciplinary contexts. LSJ provides extensive classical usage examples showing its development. Vine’s notes its connection to conscience and conviction. Strong’s emphasizes its primary nature as a fundamental verb of striking. Moulton and Milligan document its common usage in everyday life situations. The word carries both judicial and corrective connotations, often appearing in contexts of legitimate authority exercising discipline.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First Appearance:
Matthew 24:49: “and begins to beat [τύπτω] his fellow servants, and to eat and drink with the drunkards”

Additional References:
Luke 12:45, Acts 23:3, 1 Corinthians 8:12, Acts 21:32

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

The word τύπτω reveals both the severity of sin and the redemptive nature of divine discipline. While it often appears in contexts of violence or punishment, it also points to God’s corrective love. The good news emerges as we understand that even divine striking serves a redemptive purpose – our loving Father disciplines those He loves. Through the Messiah, who was struck for our transgressions, we see that divine discipline ultimately leads to restoration and spiritual growth.

D – Did You Know?

1. τύπτω is the root word from which we get “type” and “typical”
2. In ancient Greek law, τύπτω was a technical term for assault
3. Early Christian writers used τύπτω to describe the conviction of the Holy Spirit

Strong’s G5180: A primary verb denoting physical or metaphorical striking, often used in contexts of discipline and conviction. Its usage spans from literal beating to spiritual correction, revealing both divine justice and redemptive purpose in discipline.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: strike, beat, smite, discipline, conviction, punishment, correction, divine discipline, physical action, conscience, spiritual growth, biblical Greek​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​