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The sorrowful annoyance of hairsplitting
1. The sorrowful annoyance of hairsplitting
Some people are "
annoyed" by excessive detail in arguments that they consider as "
hairsplitting". The same thing happens with jokes.
That (joke) is so stupid it's not funny!
Aristotle states this idea in his
Metaphysics when discussing learning types and how to teach or reason with them.
That same Greek word for "
annoyed" (the primary meaning) is often translated in the
GNT (Greek New Testament) as "
troubled" or "
sorrowful".
Some of those verses might fit better with the word "
annoyed" or "
troubled" rather than "
sorrowful". As often happens, the decided meaning of the word appears to have changed the meaning of the word in modern Greek.
2. Aristotle
Aristotle (Greek scientist and philosopher) was the personal tutor of Alexander the Great and wrote many important works in science and philosophy.
Physics
Metaphysics (the book "after" physics)
Sophistic Refutations (identifying and refuting bad logic)
... and many others ...
3. Learning
Different people learn in different ways. For some people, it is unclear if they do learn. In his
Metaphysics,
Aristotle makes the following statements about teaching and learning. The part omitted at the end (not needed here) says that one needs to be prepared to teach to different learning styles.
Let us look at these statements in detail.
4. Aristotle: Learning expectations
English: ... And some want to have everything done accurately, while others are annoyed by accuracy, either because they cannot follow the connexion of thought or because they regard it as pettifoggery ...
Aristotle: Metaphyics 2 3:8 … καὶ οἱ μὲν πάντα ἀκριβῶς, τοὺς δὲ λυπεῖ τὸ ἀκριβὲς ἢ διὰ τὸ μὴ δύνασθαι συνείρειν ἢ διὰ τὴν μικρολογίαν [metaphysics]
Some have trouble following precise and accurate logical details or regard it as
"hairsplitting".
GNT:
"invalid logic" ⇒ "strife".
"personal opinion" ⇒ "vain glory".
If you ask an engineer for an explanation, be ready to listen for a while. Just nod your head and pretend you understand what he is saying. You'll wish you had never asked.
5. Aristotle: How people learn
English: Thus, some people do not listen to a speaker unless he speaks mathematically, others unless he gives instances, while others expect him to cite a poet as witness.
Greek: … οἱ μὲν οὖν ἐὰν μὴ μαθηματικῶς λέγῃ τις οὐκ ἀποδέχονται τῶν λεγόντων, οἱ δ᾿ ἃν μὴ παραδειγματικῶς, οἱ δὲ μάρτυρα ἀξιοῦσιν ἐπάγεσθαι ποιητή… Aristotle: Metaphysics.
This statement by Aristotle follows the three general types of truth.
logic : mathematically using precise logic and meticulous detail (deductive top-down)
reality : scientific real world examples/instances (empirical bottom-up)
opinion : witness of others (sports heroes, actors, politicians, pastors, etc.)
[logic: six pack; reality: 12 oz. each; opinion: tastes great, less filling]
The Greek and Hebrew words for
"truth" are that of
"reality" and
not "logic" or
"opinion".
6. Mathematics
Aristotle: Metaphyics 2 3:8 … οἱ μὲν οὖν ἐὰν μὴ μαθηματικῶς λέγῃ … [metaphysics]
English: ... Thus, some people do not listen to a speaker unless he speaks mathematically….
The idea here appears to be of precise logical detail.
Is God a Mathematician?
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Details are left as a future topic.
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7. Reality
Is God a mathematician?
Is mathematics real or just in the imagination (of man)?
Albert Einstein (English): "As far as the laws of mathematics refer to reality, they are not certain, and as far as they are certain, they do not refer to reality". (Albert Einstein, 1879-1955).
Albert Einstein (German): "Insofern sich die Sätze der Mathematik auf die Wirklichkeit beziehen, sind sie nict sicher, und insofern sie sicher sind, beziehen sie sich nicht auf die Wirklichkeit" (Albert Einstein, 1879-1955).
8. Integers
Is God a mathematician?
In computation, everything is finitely represented using bits, even real number approximations that are sometimes called floating point number (approximations).
English: "The beloved God has made all of the integers, everything else is the work of man." (Kronecker, Leopold, 1823-1891)
German: "Die ganzen Zahlen hat der liebe Gott gemacht, alles andere ist Menschenwerk" (Kronecker, Leopold, 1823-1891)
The important point here is not a Creator God. The important point is that real numbers appear to exist only in the mind of humans as a way to model problems and approximate solutions.
9. Teaching and learning and mathematics
Matthew 5:2 And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying, [kjv]
και ανοιξας το στομα αυτου εδιδασκεν αυτους λεγων [gnt]
Teaching and learning are two viewpoints. In English, the following viewpoints are used.
The teacher teaches the student.
The student learns from the teacher.
In many settings, the teacher may learn things from the student.
The ancient Greek word
"μαθητής" ≈ "learner, disciple" and which is translated in the
GNT as "
disciple". A "
disciple" is someone who "
learns" from a teacher.
10. Mathematics
Mathematics got its name from "
teach" since one had to be "
taught" it, unlike rhetoric, poetry or music.
Arithmetic: 2 + 3 * 5 (push button calculator)
Mathematics: x + 3 = y (create and then solve)
English: The Peripatetics say that rhetoric and poetry and the whole of popular music can be understood without any course of instruction, but no one can acquire knowledge of the subjects called by the special name mathematics unless he has first gone through a course of instruction in them; and for this reason the study of these subjects was called mathematics. …” Loeb 335, p. 2.
Greek: “Οἱ μὲν ἀπὸ τοῦ Περιπάτου φάσκοντες ῥητορικῆς μὲν καὶ ποιητικῆς συμπάσης τε τῆς δημώδους μουσικῆς δύνασθαί τινα συνεῖναι καὶ μὴ μαθόντα, τὰ δὲ καλούμενα ἰδίως μαθήματα οὐδένα εἰς εἴδησιν λαμβάνειν μὴ οὐχὶ πρότερον ἐν μαθήσει γενόμενον τούτων, διὰ τοῦτο μαθηματικὴν καλεῖσθαι τὴν περὶ τούτων θεωρίαν ὑπελάμβανον. …”
11. German teaching and learning
12. Mathematics
Mathematics is the study of mathematical systems.
Hofstadter: "
Mathematics is what mathematicians do". Hofstadter, D. (1979).
Gödel, Escher, Bach: An eternal golden braid. New York: Vintage Books., p. 559.
Hofstadter makes the claim that mathematics is what mathematicians do. Citing the example of Ramanujam, he goes on to assert that all mathematicians are isomorphic in the sense that they think in the same way. What exactly is that way? In part, mathematicians are able to abstract away details to such an extent that they become the butt of jokes indicating a loss of touch with reality. By the beginning of the 20th century, mathematics as a field had pretty much decided to divorce itself from reality (including philosophical questions) by making mathematics a formal system of symbols and symbol manipulation.
13. Examples
Aristotle: Metaphyics 2 3:8 … οἱ δ᾿ ἃν μὴ παραδειγματικῶς, … [metaphysics]
English: … others unless he gives instances…
An
example is an
instance of something that is used to show something.
The ancient Greek word
"παράδειγμα" ≈ "pattern, example" and is the source of the English word
"paradigm".
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When asked for your opinion, what makes more sense than your two cents? Worth more are some examples as pair of dimes!
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14. Paradigm shifts
Exodus 25:9 According to all that I shew thee, after the pattern of the tabernacle, and the pattern of all the instruments thereof, even so shall ye make it. [kjv]
The English word "
paradigm" comes from the ancient Greek word
"παράδειγμα" ≈ "pattern, example". In modern Greek, "
paradigm" and "
pattern" are this same word.
The word "
paradigm" became popular in the 1960's due to the book by Thomas Kuhn who defined a
paradigm shift as a radical change in the way one thinks about and solves a problem.
Paradigm shifts involve new concepts and often require one to think outside the box. One saying about change in relation it paradigms is that "
shift happens".
15. Poetic witness
Aristotle: Metaphyics 2 3:8 … οἱ δὲ μάρτυρα ἀξιοῦσιν ἐπάγεσθαι ποιητήν. … [metaphysics]
English: … while others expect him to cite a poet as witness.
The ancient Greek word
"μάρτυς" ≈ "witness" and is the source of the English word
"martyr".
The Greek for "
poet" comes from the Greek word for "
make". A "
poet" is someone who "
makes" (poetry) with "
words". In deception terms, a poet (sports hero, actor, pastor, etc.) only needs to appear to be true.
16. Making poetry and peace
The ancient Greek word
"ποιέω" ≈ "make, do, cause" and is the source of the English word
"poem" as in something that is made using words.
Saying:
I am a poet and don't know it.
Making peace as an active (physical) endeavor of forcing peace (e.g., Pax Romana or Roman peace) or as a passive (mental) endeavor by "
appeasing" others (making concessions, etc.) may not be a good idea.
17. Consistency
What convinces masses are not facts, and not even invented facts, but only the consistency of the system of which they are presumably part. Hanna Arendt (Political philosopher)
Arendt, H. (1951).
The origins of totalitarianism. 1968 printing. New York: Harcourt, Brace & World, Inc., p. 49.
18. Marketing
The world of "
marketing" provides ample evidence that many people listen to "
poets" as "
witnesses" such as sports heroes, actors, politicians, pastors, etc. That is part of the danger of "
false teachers" in the church. Jesus warns us. Paul warns us. Peter warns us. John warns us.
The 4 P's of marketing are as follows.
product
price
place
promotion
The "
promotion", getting the word out, getting attention, etc., is the primary aspect of marketing that some consider an invitation to "
deception".
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Details are left as a future topic.
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19. Plastic words and merchandise
2 Peter 2:3 And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not. [kjv]
και εν πλεονεξια πλαστοις λογοις υμας εμπορευσονται οις το κριμα εκπαλαι ουκ αργει και η απωλεια αυτων ου νυσταζει [gnt]
Peter says that these "
false teachers" will use
"plastic" words to make
"merchandise" of their followers as in selling at an
"emporium".
"πλάσσω" ≈ "form, mold, shape" as is the source of the English word "plastic".
"ἔμπορος" ≈ "traveler, merchant" as in one who makes a journey and is the source of the English word "emporium".
In Romans 16, Paul make a play on words between "
useful words", "
subtle sermons" in Latin, and "
Christ words".
20. Witnesses and martyrs
Revelation 2:13 … Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. [kjv]
οιδα που κατοικεις οπου ο θρονος του σατανα και κρατεις το ονομα μου και ουκ ηρνησω την πιστιν μου και εν ταις ημεραις αντιπας ο μαρτυς μου ο πιστος μου ος απεκτανθη παρ υμιν οπου ο σατανας κατοικει [gnt]
… witnesse… [wy]
… witnes … [ty]
The ancient Greek word
"μάρτυς" ≈ "witness" and is the source of the English word
"martyr". After the time of Jesus, so many "
witnesses" for Christ were killed for their witness that the word meaning narrowed to a witness who is killed for their witness.
The modern Greek word
"μαρτύρας" (mar-TEE-ras) ≈ "witness". The modern Greek word
"μαρτυρία" (mar-tee-REE-a) ≈ "testimony".
How faithful is the Rev 2:13 in the translation of the
KJV (King James Version)?
Aristotle continues.
21. Listeners
Aristotle: Metaphyics 2 3:8 … καὶ οἱ μὲν πάντα ἀκριβῶς, τοὺς δὲ λυπεῖ τὸ ἀκριβὲς ἢ διὰ τὸ μὴ δύνασθαι συνείρειν ἢ διὰ τὴν μικρολογίαν [metaphysics]
English: ... And some want to have everything done accurately, while others are annoyed by accuracy, either because they cannot follow the connexion of thought or because they regard it as pettifoggery ...
The ancient Greek word
"ἀκριβῶς" ≈ "accurately, precisely".
The ancient Greek word
"μικρολογιαν" ≈ "meticulous argument" and means, literally, "
insignificant words". It can have the meaning of "
mean" as in "
not nice".
The ancient Greek word
"λύπη" ≈ "annoyance, distress".
22. Accuracy
23. Precision and accuracy
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Precise
Accurate
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Not precise
Accurate
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Precise
Not accurate
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Not precise
Not accurate
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In modern statistical terms, there is a significant difference between "
precision" and "
accuracy".
24. Matthew 2:8
Matthew 2:8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also. [kjv]
και πεμψας αυτους εις βηθλεεμ ειπεν πορευθεντες εξετασατε ακριβως περι του παιδιου επαν δε ευρητε απαγγειλατε μοι οπως καγω ελθων προσκυνησω αυτω [gnt]
The ancient Greek word
"ἀκριβῶς" ≈ "accurately, precisely". In many ways, a "
search" and a "
seek" are different.
The "
young child" could have been a newborn infant to a child of 12 years of age.
25. Matthew 2:8
KJV: And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.
Greek: και πεμψας αυτους εις βηθλεεμ ειπεν πορευθεντες ακριβως εξετασατε ακριβως περι του παιδιου επαν δε ευρητε απαγγειλατε μοι οπως καγω ελθων προσκυνησω αυτω
26. Pettifoggery
27. Hairsplitting
The English idiom
"hairsplitting" means "
pettifoggery" as in "
too much unimportant detail" to the person who is listening - who may or may not understand what is being said (as Aristotle says right before this comment).
The idiom "
hairsplitting" is not the same as "
split ends".
The phrase "
split ends" is not the same as a "
split end" as in a "
wide receiver" in the game of football.
28. Small talk
The ancient Greek word
"μικρολογιαν" ≈ "meticulous argument" and means, literally, "
insignificant words" or "
small words".
This meaning is somewhat related to the English idiom "
small talk", but not the object-oriented computer language system called "
Smalltalk".
29. Micro
The ancient Greek word
"μικρός" ≈ "a little of, trivial, brief, young" and is the source of the English word
"micro"
The ancient Greek word
"ἡλικία" ≈ "age, maturity".
However, these two words were translated as "
short height" in the story of Zacchaeus as a "
wee little man".
The Greek would indicate that Zacchaeus was of a "
young age" and not a "
short height". The Latin translation started the word slide of this word into modern translations.
30. Hairsplitting chemistry
I think chemistry is being frittered away by the hairsplitting of the organic chemists; we have new compounds discovered, which scarcely differ from the known ones and when discovered are valueless-very illustrations perhaps of their refinements in analysis, but very little aiding the progress of true science. (underlining added). Michael Faraday (1791-1867), English natural philosopher and scientist.
31. Erasmus on pettifoggery
Desiderius
Erasmus Roterodamus (1466-1536) was a Dutch philosopher and (Catholic) theologian who, although not using the idiom "
hairsplitting" was concerned about how obsessions over small differences was splitting the body of Christ.
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Details are left as a future topic.
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32. Hairs on a head
Matthew 5:36 Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black. [kjv]
μητε εν τη κεφαλη σου ομοσης οτι ου δυνασαι μιαν τριχα λευκην ποιησαι η μελαιναν [gnt]
10:30 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. [kjv]
υμων δε και αι τριχες της κεφαλης πασαι ηριθμημεναι εισιν [gnt]
There are many jokes and comments about this verse by those who do not have many hairs. Might this digression be "
hairsplitting"? Or "
split ends". But not a football player position as a "
split end".
The verse in Matthew 5:36 and 10:30 that both use the Greek word for "
hair", which might have another meaning (as a
code word) where both are true.
33. Hairs on a head revisited
Matthew 5:36 Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black. [kjv]
10:30 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. [kjv]
As a secondary meaning, Jesus is the "
head" of the "
church" of "
believers". Let us
paraphrase both verses using this insight and using a "
person" (or "
believer") as a "
hair".
Matthew 5:36: Do not swear by Jesus because you cannot make/judge/separate one believer/person as 'white' or 'black'. (or "narrow gate" or "wide gate" or "heaven" or "hell", etc.).
Matthew 10:30: But the very believers/persons of Jesus are all numbered.
34. Hairs and believers
Is "
one believer" you? This secondary meanings of both verses are an equivocation used not to deceive but to conceal.
Might this provide some insight into the secondary meaning of "
white" and "
black" which in the Greek have other meanings as "
shades" of color or sound? Here are some possibilities.
"distinct" or "indistinct"
"clear" or "dim"
"saved" or "not saved"
"narrow gate" or "wide gate"
"sheep" or (kid) "goats"
35. Pettifoggery as being mean
The ancient Greek word
"μικρολογιαν" ≈ "meticulous argument" and means, literally, "
insignificant words". It can mean "
mean" as in "
not nice". Josephus uses this word once in the
Jewish Antiquities in the story of Jacob and Laban.
Greek:
ἡ δὲ περὶ μὲν τῆς τῶν γονέων φιλανθρωπίας αὐτῆς ὀρθῶσεἰκάζειν αὐτὸν εἶπεν, ἐπεμέμφετο δὲ ὡς μικρολόγους ὑπειληφότα·πάντων γὰρ ἀμισθὶ μεθέξειν. δηλώσασα μέντοι Λαβάνῳ πρότεροντἀδελφῷ συγχωροῦντος ἄξειν αὐτὸν ἔλεγεν.
English: To this she replied that with regard to her parents' humanity he judged aright, but she upbraided him for suspecting them of meanness, for he should have everything free of cost; however, she would first speak to her brother Laban and with his consent would bring him in.
Loeb #242, p 122. Josephus: Jewish Antiquities 1.
36. Meanness
Aristotle: Metaphyics 2 3:8 … καὶ οἱ μὲν πάντα ἀκριβῶς, τοὺς δὲ λυπεῖ τὸ ἀκριβὲς ἢ διὰ τὸ μὴ δύνασθαι συνείρειν ἢ διὰ τὴν μικρολογίαν [metaphysics]
English: ... And some want to have everything done accurately, while others are annoyed by accuracy, either because they cannot follow the connexion of thought or because they regard it as meanness ...
The ancient Greek word
"μικρολογιαν" ≈ "meticulous argument" and means, literally, "
insignificant words". It can mean "
mean" as in "
not nice".
Does the following make sense at the end of the above sentence?
37. Annoyance
Aristotle: Metaphyics 2 3:8 … τοὺς δὲ λυπεῖ τὸ ἀκριβὲς … [metaphysics]
English: … while others are annoyed by accuracy…
The ancient Greek word
"λύπη" ≈ "annoyance, distress". The modern Greek word
"λύπη" (LEE-pee) ≈ "sorrow, sadness, suffering". It appears this meaning comes from the meaning assumed in the
GNT from Latin, etc.
Which word fits best?
"annoyed", "annoyance", etc. (primary meaning)
"distressed", "distress", "troubled", etc.(secondary meaning)
"sorrowful", "sorry", "grieved", etc.
38. Avoid the Noid
The "
Noid" was created in the 1980's by Domino's Pizza and brought back in 2021. The "
Noid" represented the problems involved in getting a pizza made and delivered in 30 minutes (or less)
The Domino's Pizza marketing slogan was "
Avoid the Noid". You would not want to be "
annoyed".
39. Pizza saver
The little plastic tripod used to keep the pizza (or cake) box from collapsing on the pizza (or cake) has many names such as a "
pizza saver".
Good King Wenceslas liked pizza. How did he like his pizza?
Pizza that is round about, deep-pan, crisp and even
The "
pizza saver" is designed to be discarded after use can be kept, cleaned, turned upside down, and used as an egg holder (such as for Easter eggs).
40. Pizza slices
You better cut the pizza in four pieces because I’m not hungry enough to eat six. Yogi Berra (American professional baseball player and manager)
41. Translation
Aristotle: Metaphyics 2 3:8 … τοὺς δὲ λυπεῖ τὸ ἀκριβὲς … [metaphysics]
English: … while others are annoyed by accuracy…
The Greek word used as "
annoyed" is interesting as this word is translated in many different ways in the
GNT. However, the meaning of "
annoyed" or "
troubled" appears to fit many of the verses.
Let us investigate.
42. Matthew 14:9
Matthew 14:9 And the king was sorry: nevertheless for the oath's sake, and them which sat with him at meat, he commanded it to be given her. [kjv]
και λυπηθεις ο βασιλευς δια τους ορκους και τους συνανακειμενους εκελευσεν δοθηναι [gnt]
… contristatus … iuramentum … [v]
Herod was "
set up" by his scheming wife and daughter.
Which word fits best?
"annoyed", "annoyance", etc. (primary meaning)
"distressed", "distress", "troubled", etc.(secondary meaning)
"sorrowful", "sorry", "grieved", etc.
The Latin word
"constristatus" ≈ "saddened, depressed". The Latin word
"iuramentum" ≈ "oath".
43. Matthew 14:9
KJV: And the king was sorry: nevertheless for the oath's sake, and them which sat with him at meat, he commanded it to be given her.
Greek: και ελυπηθη λυπηθεις ο βασιλευς δια δε τους ορκους και τους συνανακειμενους εκελευσεν δοθηναι
Latin: et contristatus est rex propter iuramentum autem et eos qui pariter recumbebant iussit dari
44. Strongs - annoyed
- *G3076 *26 λυπέω (loo-peh'-o) : from G3077; to distress; reflexively or passively, to be sad:--cause grief, grieve, be in heaviness, (be) sorrow(-ful), be (make) sorry.
- λυπουμενος *3
- Matthew 19:22 ... heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.
- Mark 10:22 ... at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had ...
- 2 Corinthians 2:2 For if I make you sorry, who is ...
- ελυπηθητε *3
- 2 Corinthians 7:9 ... not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: ...
- ελυπηθησαν *2
- Matthew 17:23 ... he shall be raised again. And they were exceeding sorry.
- Matthew 18:31 ... saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came ...
- λυπουμενοι *2
- Matthew 26:22 And they were exceeding sorrowful, and began every one ...
- 2 Corinthians 6:10 As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as ...
- λυπεισθαι *2
- Matthew 26:37 ... sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy.
- Mark 14:19 And they began to be sorrowful, and to say unto him ...
- λελυπηκεν *2
- 2 Corinthians 2:5 But if any have caused grief, he hath not grieved ...
- λυπηθεις
- Matthew 14:9 And the king was sorry: nevertheless for the oath's sake, ...
- λυπηθησεσθε
- John 16:20 ... shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow ...
- ελυπηθη
- John 21:17 ... lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him ...
- λυπειται
- Romans 14:15 But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now ...
- λυπω
- 2 Corinthians 2:2 For if I make you sorry, who is ...
- λυπηθητε
- 2 Corinthians 2:4 ... tears; not that ye should be grieved, but that ye might know ...
- ελυπησα
- 2 Corinthians 7:8 For though I made you sorry with a letter, I do not repent, though I did repent: for I perceive that the same epistle hath made you sorry, ...
- ελυπησεν
- 2 Corinthians 7:8 For though I made you sorry with a letter, I do not repent, though I did repent: for I perceive that the same epistle hath made you sorry, ...
- λυπηθηναι
- 2 Corinthians 7:11 ... this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, ...
- λυπειτε
- Ephesians 4:30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, ...
- λυπησθε
- 1 Thessalonians 4:13 ... concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as ...
- λυπηθεντες
- 1 Peter 1:6 ... if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations:
45. Usage - annoyed
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Words: ελυπηθη ελυπηθησαν=2 ελυπηθητε=3 ελυπησα ελυπησεν λελυπηκεν=2 λυπεισθαι=2 λυπειται λυπειτε λυπηθεις λυπηθεντες λυπηθηναι λυπηθησεσθε λυπηθητε λυπησθε λυπουμενοι=2 λυπουμενος=3 λυπω
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46. Strongs
The ancient Greek word
"λύπη" ≈ "annoyance, distress".
Strongs:
*G3076 *26 λυπέω (loo-peh'-o) : from G3077 λύπη; to distress; reflexively or passively, to be sad:--cause grief, grieve, be in heaviness, (be) sorrow(-ful), be (make) sorry.
Notice how Strings will provide the secondary meaning of "
distressed" and will then use the "
idiom excuse" to change the meaning to fit the meaning that has already been decided for that verse.
Some of these meaning changes come from the Latin.
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Details are left as a future topic.
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47. Matthew 17:23
Matthew 17:23 And they shall kill him, and the third day he shall be raised again. And they were exceeding sorry. [kjv]
και αποκτενουσιν αυτον και τη τριτη ημερα εγερθησεται και ελυπηθησαν σφοδρα [gnt]
… contristati … [v]
What was the disciple's reaction when Jesus says that he will be killed and then raised?
Which word fits best?
"annoyed", "annoyance", etc. (primary meaning)
"distressed", "distress", "troubled", etc.(secondary meaning)
"sorrowful", "sorry", "grieved", etc.
The Latin word
"constristatus" ≈ "saddened, depressed".
48. Matthew 17:23
KJV: And they shall kill him, and the third day he shall be raised again. And they were exceeding sorry.
Greek: και αποκτενουσιν αυτον και τη τριτη ημερα εγερθησεται και ελυπηθησαν σφοδρα
Latin: et occident eum et tertio die resurget et contristati sunt vehementer
49. Matthew 18:31
Matthew 18:31 So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. [kjv]
ιδοντες ουν οι συνδουλοι αυτου τα γενομενα ελυπηθησαν σφοδρα και ελθοντες διεσαφησαν τω κυριω παντα τα γενομενα [gnt]
… contristados… [por]
This verse is from the parable of the ungrateful servant who was forgiven his debt by his master but did not forgive those who owed him debts.
Which word fits best?
"annoyed", "annoyance", etc. (primary meaning)
"distressed", "distress", "troubled", etc.(secondary meaning)
"sorrowful", "sorry", "grieved", etc.
The Latin word
"constristatus" ≈ "saddened, depressed".
50. Matthew 18:31
KJV: So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done.
Greek: ιδοντες δε ουν οι συνδουλοι αυτου τα γενομενα ελυπηθησαν σφοδρα και ελθοντες διεσαφησαν τω κυριω αυτων εαυτων παντα τα γενομενα
Portuguese: Ao verem o que tinha acontecido, os outros companheiros, contristados, foram contá-lo ao seu senhor.
51. Luke 22:45
Luke 22:45 And when he rose up from prayer, and was come to his disciples, he found them sleeping for sorrow, [kjv]
και αναστας απο της προσευχης ελθων προς τους μαθητας ευρεν κοιμωμενους αυτους απο της λυπης [gnt]
… tristitia [v]
In the garden, after praying, Jesus finds the disciples sleeping.
Which word fits best?
"annoyed", "annoyance", etc. (primary meaning)
"distressed", "distress", "troubled", etc.(secondary meaning)
"sorrowful", "sorry", "grieved", etc.
The Latin word
"tristitia" ≈ "sadness, sorrow, melancholy, sloth".
52. Luke 22:45
KJV: And when he rose up from prayer, and was come to his disciples, he found them sleeping for sorrow,
Greek: και αναστας απο της προσευχης ελθων προς τους μαθητας ευρεν αυτους κοιμωμενους αυτους απο της λυπης
Latin: et cum surrexisset ab oratione et venisset ad discipulos suos invenit eos dormientes prae tristitia
53. John 16:5-7
John 16:5 But now I go my way to him that sent me; and none of you asketh me, Whither goest thou? [kjv]
16:6 But because I have said these things unto you, sorrow hath filled your heart. [kjv]
αλλ οτι ταυτα λελαληκα υμιν η λυπη πεπληρωκεν υμων την καρδιαν [gnt]
… tristitia … [v]
16:7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. [kjv]
Which word fits best?
"annoyed", "annoyance", etc. (primary meaning)
"distressed", "distress", "troubled", etc.(secondary meaning)
"sorrowful", "sorry", "grieved", etc.
The Latin word
"tristitia" ≈ "sadness, sorrow, melancholy, sloth".
54. John 16:5
KJV: But now I go my way to him that sent me; and none of you asketh me, Whither goest thou?
Greek: νυν δε υπαγω προς τον πεμψαντα με και ουδεις εξ υμων ερωτα με που υπαγεις
55. John 16:6
KJV: But because I have said these things unto you, sorrow hath filled your heart.
Greek: αλλ οτι ταυτα λελαληκα υμιν η λυπη πεπληρωκεν υμων την καρδιαν
Latin: sed quia haec locutus sum vobis tristitia implevit cor vestrum
56. John 16:7
KJV: Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.
Greek: αλλ εγω την αληθειαν λεγω υμιν συμφερει υμιν ινα εγω απελθω εαν γαρ μη απελθω ο παρακλητος ουκ ελευσεται ου μη ελθη προς υμας εαν δε πορευθω πεμψω αυτον προς υμας
57. John
John uses the word translated as "
sorrowful" in three successive verses in John 16.
In each of the verses, the Greek word translated as "
joy" has a primary meaning of "
favor" which, depending on context, may be "
joy".
58. John 16:20
John 16:20 Verily, verily, I say unto you, That ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy. [kjv]
αμην αμην λεγω υμιν οτι κλαυσετε και θρηνησετε υμεις ο δε κοσμος χαρησεται υμεις λυπηθησεσθε αλλ η λυπη υμων εις χαραν γενησεται [gnt]
… contristabimini … tristitia … [v]
Which word fits best?
"annoyed", "annoyance", etc. (primary meaning)
"distressed", "distress", "troubled", etc.(secondary meaning)
"sorrowful", "sorry", "grieved", etc.
The Latin word
"constristatus" ≈ "saddened, depressed".
The Latin word
"tristitia" ≈ "sadness, sorrow, melancholy, sloth".
59. John 16:20
KJV: Verily, verily, I say unto you, That ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy.
Greek: αμην αμην λεγω υμιν οτι κλαυσετε και θρηνησετε υμεις ο δε κοσμος χαρησεται υμεις δε λυπηθησεσθε αλλ η λυπη υμων εις χαραν γενησεται
Latin: amen amen dico vobis quia plorabitis et flebitis vos mundus autem gaudebit vos autem contristabimini sed tristitia vestra vertetur in gaudium
60. John 16:21
John 16:21 A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her hour is come: but as soon as she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no more the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world. [kjv]
η γυνη οταν τικτη λυπην εχει οτι ηλθεν η ωρα αυτης οταν δε γεννηση το παιδιον ουκετι μνημονευει της θλιψεως δια την χαραν οτι εγεννηθη ανθρωπος εις τον κοσμον [gnt]
… tristitiam … [v]
Which word fits best?
"annoyed", "annoyance", etc. (primary meaning)
"distressed", "distress", "troubled", etc.(secondary meaning)
"sorrowful", "sorry", "grieved", etc.
The Latin word
"tristitia" ≈ "sadness, sorrow, melancholy, sloth".
61. John 16:21
KJV: A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her hour is come: but as soon as she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no more the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world.
Greek: η γυνη οταν τικτη λυπην εχει οτι ηλθεν η ωρα αυτης οταν δε γεννηση το παιδιον ουκ ετι ουκετι μνημονευει της θλιψεως δια την χαραν οτι εγεννηθη ανθρωπος εις τον κοσμον
Latin: mulier cum parit tristitiam habet quia venit hora eius cum autem pepererit puerum iam non meminit pressurae propter gaudium quia natus est homo in mundum
62. John 16:22
John 16:22 And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you. [kjv]
και υμεις ουν νυν μεν λυπην εχετε παλιν δε οψομαι υμας και χαρησεται υμων η καρδια και την χαραν υμων ουδεις αρει αφ υμων [gnt]
… tristitiam … [v]
Which word fits best?
"annoyed", "annoyance", etc. (primary meaning)
"distressed", "distress", "troubled", etc.(secondary meaning)
"sorrowful", "sorry", "grieved", etc.
The Latin word
"tristitia" ≈ "sadness, sorrow, melancholy, sloth".
63. John 16:22
KJV: And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you.
Greek: και υμεις ουν λυπην μεν νυν μεν λυπην εχετε παλιν δε οψομαι υμας και χαρησεται υμων η καρδια και την χαραν υμων ουδεις αιρει αρει αφ υμων
Latin: et vos igitur nunc quidem tristitiam habetis iterum autem videbo vos et gaudebit cor vestrum et gaudium vestrum nemo tollit a vobis
64. John 21:17
John 21:17 He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep. [kjv]
λεγει αυτω το τριτον σιμων ιωαννου φιλεις με ελυπηθη ο πετρος οτι ειπεν αυτω το τριτον φιλεις με και ειπεν λεγει αυτω κυριε παντα συ οιδας συ γινωσκεις οτι φιλω σε λεγει αυτω ιησους ο ιησους βοσκε τα μου [gnt]
… contristatus … [v]
Which word fits best?
"annoyed", "annoyance", etc. (primary meaning)
"distressed", "distress", "troubled", etc.(secondary meaning)
"sorrowful", "sorry", "grieved", etc.
The Latin word
"constristatus" ≈ "saddened, depressed".
65. John 21:17
KJV: He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.
Greek: λεγει αυτω το τριτον σιμων ιωνα ιωαννου φιλεις με ελυπηθη ο πετρος οτι ειπεν αυτω το τριτον φιλεις με και ειπεν λεγει αυτω κυριε συ παντα συ οιδας συ γινωσκεις οτι φιλω σε λεγει αυτω ιησους ο ιησους βοσκε τα προβατα προβατια μου
Latin: dicit ei tertio Simon Iohannis amas me contristatus est Petrus quia dixit ei tertio amas me et dicit ei Domine tu omnia scis tu scis quia amo te dicit ei pasce oves meas
66. LXX
The same word appears in the
LXX (Septuagint), written about 300 years earlier.
Here we look at a few selected verses.
67. Genesis 4:5
Genesis 4:5 But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. [kjv]
επι δε καιν και επι ταις θυσιαις αυτου ου προσεσχεν και ελυπησεν τον καιν λιαν και συνεπεσεν τω προσωπω [lxx]
… concidit … [v]
Which word fits best?
"annoyed", "annoyance", etc. (primary meaning)
"distressed", "distress", "troubled", etc.(secondary meaning)
"sorrowful", "sorry", "grieved", etc.
The Latin word
"constristatus" ≈ "saddened, depressed".
68. Genesis 4:5
KJV: But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell.
Hebrew: ואל קין ואל מנחתו לא שעה ויחר לקין מאד ויפלו פניו׃
Greek: επι δε καιν και επι ταις θυσιαις αυτου ου προσεσχεν και ελυπησεν τον καιν λιαν και συνεπεσεν τω προσωπω
Latin: ad Cain vero et ad munera illius non respexit iratusque est Cain vehementer et concidit vultus eius
69. Proverbs 10:1
Proverbs 10:1 The proverbs of Solomon. A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish son is the heaviness of his mother. [kjv]
υιος σοφος ευφραινει πατερα υιος δε αφρων λυπη τη μητρι [lxx]
Which word fits best?
"annoyed", "annoyance", etc. (primary meaning)
"distressed", "distress", "troubled", etc.(secondary meaning)
"sorrowful", "sorry", "grieved", etc.
70. Proverbs 10:1
KJV: The proverbs of Solomon. A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish son is the heaviness of his mother.
Hebrew: משלי שלמה בן חכם ישמח אב ובן כסיל תוגת אמו׃
Greek: υιος σοφος ευφραινει πατερα υιος δε αφρων λυπη τη μητρι
71. Proverbs 15:1
Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger. [kjv]
οργη απολλυσιν και φρονιμους αποκρισις δε υποπιπτουσα αποστρεφει θυμον λογος δε λυπηρος εγειρει οργας [lxx]
Which word fits best?
"annoyed", "annoyance", etc. (primary meaning)
"distressed", "distress", "troubled", etc.(secondary meaning)
"sorrowful", "sorry", "grieved", etc.
72. Proverbs 15:1
KJV: A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.
Hebrew: מענה רך ישיב חמה ודבר עצב יעלה אף׃
Greek: οργη απολλυσιν και φρονιμους αποκρισις δε υποπιπτουσα αποστρεφει θυμον λογος δε λυπηρος εγειρει οργας
73. Proverbs 25:20
Proverbs 25:20 As he that taketh away a garment in cold weather, and as vinegar upon nitre, so is he that singeth songs to an heavy heart. [kjv]
ωσπερ οξος ελκει ασυμφορον ουτως προσπεσον παθος εν σωματι καρδιαν λυπει ωσπερ σης ιματιω και σκωληξ ξυλω ουτως λυπη ανδρος βλαπτει καρδιαν [lxx]
Which word fits best?
"annoyed", "annoyance", etc. (primary meaning)
"distressed", "distress", "troubled", etc.(secondary meaning)
"sorrowful", "sorry", "grieved", etc.
74. Proverbs 25:20
KJV: As he that taketh away a garment in cold weather, and as vinegar upon nitre, so is he that singeth songs to an heavy heart.
Hebrew: מעדה בגד ביום קרה חמץ על נתר ושר בשרים על לב רע׃
Greek: ωσπερ οξος ελκει ασυμφορον ουτως προσπεσον παθος εν σωματι καρδιαν λυπει ωσπερ σης ιματιω και σκωληξ ξυλω ουτως λυπη ανδρος βλαπτει καρδιαν
75. Isaiah 40:29
Isaiah 40:29 He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. [kjv]
διδους τοις πεινωσιν ισχυν και τοις μη οδυνωμενοις λυπην [lxx]
He gives strength to the hungry, and sorrow to them that are not suffering. [bs3]
76. Isaiah 40:29
KJV: He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength.
Hebrew: נתן ליעף כח ולאין אונים עצמה ירבה׃
Greek: διδους τοις πεινωσιν ισχυν και τοις μη οδυνωμενοις λυπην
Brenton: He gives strength to the hungry, and sorrow to them that are not suffering.
77. Jonah
Jonah 3:10 And God saw their works, that they turned from their evil way; and God repented of the evil, that he had said that he would do unto them; and he did it not. [kjv]
και ειδεν ο θεος τα εργα αυτων οτι απεστρεψαν απο των οδων αυτων των πονηρων και μετενοησεν ο θεος επι τη κακια η ελαλησεν του ποιησαι αυτοις και ουκ εποιησεν [lxx]
4:1 But it displeased Jonah exceedingly, and he was very angry. [kjv]
και ελυπηθη ιωνας λυπην μεγαλην και συνεχυθη [lxx]
But Jonas was very deeply grieved, and he was confounded. [bs3]
Jonah had a reaction when Nineveh repented as Jonah wanted them destroyed.
Which word fits best?
"annoyed", "annoyance", etc. (primary meaning)
"distressed", "distress", "troubled", etc.(secondary meaning)
"sorrowful", "sorry", "grieved", etc.
78. Jonah 3:10
KJV: And God saw their works, that they turned from their evil way; and God repented of the evil, that he had said that he would do unto them; and he did it not.
Hebrew: וירא האלהים את מעשיהם כי שבו מדרכם הרעה וינחם האלהים על הרעה אשר דבר לעשות להם ולא עשה׃
Greek: και ειδεν ο θεος τα εργα αυτων οτι απεστρεψαν απο των οδων αυτων των πονηρων και μετενοησεν ο θεος επι τη κακια η ελαλησεν του ποιησαι αυτοις και ουκ εποιησεν
79. Jonah 4:1
KJV: But it displeased Jonah exceedingly, and he was very angry.
Hebrew: וירע אל יונה רעה גדולה ויחר לו׃
Greek: και ελυπηθη ιωνας λυπην μεγαλην και συνεχυθη
Brenton: But Jonas was very deeply grieved, and he was confounded.
80. Rich meaning of annoyance
81. Rich young ruler
Matthew 19:22 But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions. [kjv]
ακουσας δε ο νεανισκος τον λογον τουτον απηλθεν λυπουμενος ην γαρ εχων κτηματα πολλα [gnt]
Mark 10:22 And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possessions. [kjv]
ο δε στυγνασας επι τω λογω απηλθεν λυπουμενος ην γαρ εχων κτηματα πολλα [gnt]
Which word fits best?
"annoyed", "annoyance", etc. (primary meaning)
"distressed", "distress", "troubled", etc.(secondary meaning)
"sorrowful", "sorry", "grieved", etc.
The ancient Greek word
"λύπη" ≈ "annoyance, distress". The modern Greek word
"λύπη" (LEE-pee) ≈ "sorrow, sadness, suffering". It appears this meaning comes from the meaning assumed in the
GNT from Latin, etc.
82. Matthew 19:22
KJV: But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.
Greek: ακουσας δε ο νεανισκος τον λογον τουτον απηλθεν λυπουμενος ην γαρ εχων κτηματα πολλα
83. Mark 10:22
KJV: And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possessions.
Greek: ο δε στυγνασας επι τω λογω απηλθεν λυπουμενος ην γαρ εχων κτηματα πολλα
84. Riches and the kingdom
85. Discussion
The word translated as "
hardly" in the
KJV and "
difficult" in many other translations is the ancient Greek word
"δύσκολος" ≈ "annoyed, grumpy, bad-tempered".
Consider the above verses and discuss the following.
How hard is it for the "rich" to enter the kingdom?
How hard is it for the "poor" to enter the kingdom?
How hard is it for those who are neither "rich" nor "poor" to enter the kingdom?
What is the difference between the following?
Something that is easy or hard (difficult).
Something that is possible or impossible.
Is there a middle ground for each?
Why might the "
right man" be annoyed, grumpy or bad-tempered at hearing the remarks of Jesus? Why might the disciples be upset too at what Jesus said.
86. Paraphrase
Matthew 19:23 … That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. [kjv]
ο δε ιησους ειπεν τοις μαθηταις αυτου αμην λεγω υμιν οτι πλουσιος δυσκολως εισελευσεται εις την βασιλειαν των ουρανων [gnt]
What happens if the original meaning of the words are used?
Paraphrase: (if otherwise qualified)
A man with many possessions enters the kingdom of heaven in a bad-tempered or grumpy manner (since all those possessions are left behind and now worthless). Whether one gets into the kingdom of heaven is dependent on other factors (e.g., how the possessions were obtained, how they were used, etc.).
87. Last Supper betrayal
Matthew 26:21 And as they did eat, he said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me. [kjv]
και εσθιοντων αυτων ειπεν αμην λεγω υμιν οτι εις εξ υμων παραδωσει με [gnt]
26:22 And they were exceeding sorrowful, and began every one of them to say unto him, Lord, is it I? [kjv]
και λυπουμενοι σφοδρα ηρξαντο λεγειν αυτω εις εκαστος μητι εγω ειμι κυριε [gnt]
Which word fits best?
"annoyed", "annoyance", etc. (primary meaning)
"distressed", "distress", "troubled", etc.(secondary meaning)
"sorrowful", "sorry", "grieved", etc.
88. Matthew 26:21
KJV: And as they did eat, he said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me.
Greek: και εσθιοντων αυτων ειπεν αμην λεγω υμιν οτι εις εξ υμων παραδωσει με
89. Matthew 26:22
KJV: And they were exceeding sorrowful, and began every one of them to say unto him, Lord, is it I?
Greek: και λυπουμενοι σφοδρα ηρξαντο λεγειν αυτω εις εκαστος αυτων μητι εγω ειμι κυριε
90. Sabbath healing
Mark 3:4 And he saith unto them, Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath days, or to do evil? to save life, or to kill? But they held their peace. [kjv]
3:5 And when he had looked round about on them with anger, being grieved for the hardness of their hearts, he saith unto the man, Stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched it out: and his hand was restored whole as the other. [kjv]
και περιβλεψαμενος αυτους μετ οργης συλλυπουμενος επι τη πωρωσει της καρδιας αυτων λεγει τω ανθρωπω εκτεινον την χειρα σου και εξετεινεν και απεκατεσταθη η χειρ αυτου [gnt]
Which word fits best?
"annoyed", "annoyance", etc. (primary meaning)
"distressed", "distress", "troubled", etc.(secondary meaning)
"sorrowful", "sorry", "grieved", etc.
91. Mark 3:4
KJV: And he saith unto them, Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath days, or to do evil? to save life, or to kill? But they held their peace.
Greek: και λεγει αυτοις εξεστιν τοις σαββασιν αγαθοποιησαι η κακοποιησαι ψυχην σωσαι η αποκτειναι οι δε εσιωπων
92. Mark 3:5
KJV: And when he had looked round about on them with anger, being grieved for the hardness of their hearts, he saith unto the man, Stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched it out: and his hand was restored whole as the other.
Greek: και περιβλεψαμενος αυτους μετ οργης συλλυπουμενος επι τη πωρωσει της καρδιας αυτων λεγει τω ανθρωπω εκτεινον την χειρα σου και εξετεινεν και αποκατεσταθη απεκατεσταθη η χειρ αυτου υγιης ως η αλλη
93. End of page
