στρεβλόω
to wrench, i.e. (specially), to torture (by the rack), but only figuratively, to pervert
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to wrench, i.e. (specially), to torture (by the rack), but only figuratively, to pervert
στρεβλόω(streblóō)
Strong’s Definition
to wrench, i.e. (specially), to torture (by the rack), but only figuratively, to pervert
from a derivative of G4762 (στρέφω);
“As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.”
No verses found containing this word study ID.
Strong's G4761: To twist, distort, or wrench. From στρεβλός (twisted). Used metaphorically in NT for the deliberate distortion of Scripture's meaning. Appears once in 2 Peter, warning against those who twist sacred writings to their own destruction.
U- Unveiling the Word
Στρεβλόω comes from the world of physical torture, where it described the twisting or wrenching of limbs, but takes on profound spiritual significance in its New Testament usage. Peter uses it to describe the deliberate distortion of Scripture's meaning by false teachers. Early church fathers saw this as a serious warning against heretical interpretations that twist God's Word to support false doctrines. Today, στρεβλόω reminds us of our responsibility to handle Scripture faithfully and warns against manipulating God's truth for personal agenda.
N - Necessary Information
Etymology:
The combination means "to make twisted" or "to distort"
D - Defining Meanings
For compound words: Not applicable as στρεβλόω is a simple verb.
Translation Options:
E - Exploring Similar Words
R - Reviewing the Word's Morphology
As a verb, στρεβλόω exhibits these features:
Examples of morphological changes:
S - Studying Lexicon Insights
BDAG emphasizes its metaphorical use for Scripture distortion. Thayer's notes its origin in physical torture. LSJ documents its use in both literal and metaphorical contexts. Vine's highlights its serious spiritual implications. Strong's connects it to twisting or perversion. Moulton and Milligan show its use in legal contexts.
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T - Tracing the Scriptures
First Appearance:
"As also in all his letters, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which the untaught and unstable [στρεβλόω] distort, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures, to their own destruction." 2 Peter 3:16
Additional References:
This is the only occurrence in the New Testament.
A - Analyzing Classical Usage
N - Noteworthy Summary
Στρεβλόω powerfully warns against the serious sin of distorting God's Word. This reminds us that Scripture is not a tool for manipulation but God's truth to be faithfully understood and applied. The good news of King Jesus must be preserved and proclaimed in its pure form, not twisted to serve human agendas.
D - Did You Know?
Strong's G4761: To twist, distort, or wrench. From στρεβλός (twisted). Used metaphorically in NT for the deliberate distortion of Scripture's meaning. Appears once in 2 Peter, warning against those who twist sacred writings to their own destruction.
Part of speech: Verb
Tags: distortion, scripture-interpretation, false-teaching, heresy, corruption, twisting-truth, biblical-interpretation, warning, faithfulness, greek-verb