G4659
σκυθρωπός
angry-visaged, i.e. gloomy or affecting a mournful appearance
Transliteration
skythrōpósPronunciation
(skoo-thro-pos')Everything you need to know.
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angry-visaged, i.e. gloomy or affecting a mournful appearance
σκυθρωπός(skythrōpós)
Strong’s Definition
angry-visaged, i.e. gloomy or affecting a mournful appearance
from (sullen) and a derivative of G3700 (ὀπτάνομαι);
“Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.”
No verses found containing this word study ID.
Strong's G4659: An adjective meaning gloomy-faced, having a sad countenance, or of somber appearance. Used to describe artificial or exaggerated expressions of sadness, particularly in religious contexts. Jesus uses it to critique hypocritical displays of fasting in the Sermon on the Mount.
U- Unveiling the Word
σκυθρωπός describes a visible manifestation of gloom or sadness, particularly focusing on facial expression. In the New Testament, Jesus employs this term when addressing hypocritical religious displays, specifically referring to those who intentionally appear downcast during fasting to gain public recognition. Early church fathers used this word when discussing genuine versus performative piety. The term carries special significance in discussions of authentic spirituality versus outward show, remaining relevant today in conversations about genuine faith versus religious performance.
N - Necessary Information
Etymology:
D - Defining Meanings
For compound words: Combines σκυθρός (gloomy) with ὤψ (face) to describe someone whose face shows gloom or sadness
Translation Options:
E - Exploring Similar Words
R - Reviewing the Word's Morphology
As an adjective:
Examples:
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S - Studying Lexicon Insights
BDAG emphasizes its use in contexts of artificial religious display. Thayer's notes its compound nature describing facial appearance. LSJ provides examples from classical literature describing genuine and feigned sadness. Vine's highlights Jesus's critique of hypocritical fasting practices. Strong's connects it to deliberate display of gloom. Moulton and Milligan document its use in describing both genuine and affected moods. LEH notes its appearance in Septuagint wisdom literature.
T - Tracing the Scriptures
First appearance:
"Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad [σκυθρωπός] countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast." Matthew 6:16
Additional References:
Luke 24:17
A - Analyzing Classical Usage
N - Noteworthy Summary
σκυθρωπός powerfully illustrates Jesus's emphasis on authentic spirituality over religious performance. Used to critique hypocritical displays of piety, it promotes the Gospel by reminding us that God seeks genuine heart transformation rather than outward shows of religiosity. This word challenges believers to examine their motives and pursue authentic relationship with Christ rather than human approval.
D - Did You Know?
Strong's G4659: An adjective combining "gloomy" and "face" to describe a sad or morose countenance. In NT usage, specifically critiques artificial displays of religious devotion. Jesus uses it to address the gap between genuine spirituality and performative piety.
Part of speech: Adjective
Tags: facial-expression, hypocrisy, fasting, religious-display, authenticity, sermon-on-mount, jesus-teaching, genuine-faith, performance, piety, biblical-greek, new-testament, spiritual-authenticity