G4089
πικρός
sharp (pungent), i.e. acrid (literally or figuratively)
Transliteration
pikrósPronunciation
(pik-ros')Everything you need to know.
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sharp (pungent), i.e. acrid (literally or figuratively)
πικρός(pikrós)
Strong’s Definition
sharp (pungent), i.e. acrid (literally or figuratively)
perhaps from G4078 (πήγνυμι) (through the idea of piercing);
“Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter?”
No verses found containing this word study ID.
Strong's G4089: An adjective meaning "bitter," used both literally for taste and metaphorically for character or disposition. In biblical contexts, particularly in James, describes the incongruity of blessing and cursing from the same mouth, illustrating spiritual inconsistency.
U- Unveiling the Word
Πικρός (pikros) fundamentally describes bitter taste but extends metaphorically to character and spiritual condition. In James's epistle, it appears in the context of speech and its power, particularly highlighting the contradiction of praising God while cursing humans. Early church writers developed this imagery to discuss authenticity in Christian speech and character. Today, it continues to challenge believers about consistency between profession and practice, particularly in speech and attitude.
N - Necessary Information
Etymology:
From Proto-Indo-European *peik- meaning "pointed, sharp"
D - Defining Meanings
Translation Options:
E - Exploring Similar Words
R - Reviewing the Word's Morphology
Adjective Features:
Example forms:
Masculine nominative: πικρός
Feminine nominative: πικρά
Neuter nominative: πικρόν
Cross-references:
S - Studying Lexicon Insights
BDAG emphasizes both literal and figurative meanings. Thayer's notes its use in moral contexts. LSJ documents extensive metaphorical applications. Vine's connects it to speech ethics. Strong's highlights its sensory origins. Moulton and Milligan note its common usage in describing character.
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T - Tracing the Scriptures
First appearance:
"Does a spring pour forth from the same opening both fresh and bitter [πικρός] water?" (James 3:11)
Additional References:
James 3:14
A - Analyzing Classical Usage
N - Noteworthy Summary
Πικρός powerfully illustrates the incompatibility of spiritual inconsistency. The good news of King Jesus transforms not just our status but our speech and character. This word challenges us to examine whether our words and attitudes reflect the sweetness of Christ's grace rather than the bitterness of the old nature.
D - Did You Know?
Strong's G4089: An adjective describing both literal bitterness of taste and metaphorical bitterness of character or speech. In James's epistle, used to illustrate the incongruity of mixed spiritual fruit, particularly in speech.
Part of speech: Adjective
Tags: #bitter #speech #character #consistency #James #tongue #transformation #NewTestament #BiblicalGreek #Theology #spiritual formation