σκόλοψ
skólops
G4647 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
A pointed object, typically a thorn, splinter, or stake; in extended or figurative usage, something that causes persistent irritation, pain, or difficulty (especially a physical affliction or persistent trouble). In most literal contexts, refers to a physical sharp point or prickle (such as a thorn or splinter); metaphorically, denotes something that torments, distresses, or oppresses.
Semantic Range
thorn, prickle, splinter, stake, pointed object, source of persistent pain or annoyance, affliction, cause of distress (literal and figurative)
Root / Etymology
The etymology is uncertain. The word σκόλοψ may be linked to the root σκελ- ('leg') or to earlier Indo-European roots related to pointed or stiff objects, but no clear derivation is secure. It is not formed from the more regular Greek word for 'thorn,' ἄκανθα, nor is its relationship to ὀπτάνομαι ('to see') secure.
Historical & Contextual Notes
In classical Greek, σκόλοψ denotes a physical object with a sharp point—a thorn, splinter, or stake. It is relatively rare. In Hellenistic and Koine usage, it continues to refer to such pointed objects, but also develops a figurative sense, indicating something that persistently causes pain, irritation, or distress. In the New Testament (notably 2 Corinthians 12:7), the term σκόλοψ is famously used as a metaphor by Paul to describe a persistent affliction or 'thorn in the flesh,' though the precise nature of the affliction is unspecified—whether physical, emotional, or otherwise. English translation traditions often supply 'thorn,' but this does not capture the broader sense of any object producing continual discomfort or trouble. The word contrasts with ἄκανθα, which more specifically denotes a plant thorn. In some contexts (including medical or rhetorical Greek), σκόλοψ can also refer to a splinter or foreign body embedded in flesh, widening its metaphorical range. It does not occur frequently in the Septuagint or wider Hellenistic literature, so most of its later significance arises from its Pauline usage.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
perhaps from the base of σκέλος and ὀπτάνομαι; withered at the front, i.e. a point or prickle (figuratively, a bodily annoyance or disability):--thorn.
Root Family
σκόλοψ (skolops) — prickle, thorn, splinter, stake
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4647-01 |
σκόλοψ | skolops | N NOM M SG |
thorn | a pricking stake | a pricking stake | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4647-01 |
2 Corinthians 12:7 | σκόλοψ | skolops | N NOM M SG |
thorn | a pricking stake | a pricking stake |