βασανίζω (basanizō)
basanizō
to torture: torture
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 12 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb basanizō describes a process of intense distress or torment, rooted in the physical act of rubbing metal against a touchstone to test its purity. In Scripture, this image shifts from refining to inflicting pain, capturing both the agony of bodily torture and the deep anguish of the mind. The sources note its use for those suffering at sea, battered by storms, or for demons causing grievous harm, illustrating a force that overwhelms human resilience.
This word appears most frequently in Revelation, where it depicts the severe torment awaiting the wicked, such as the beast and the false prophet in Revelation 20:10. It also surfaces in the Gospels when Jesus encounters those possessed by spirits or distressed by illness, highlighting a power that causes profound suffering. Translators often render it as "torture" or "torment," emphasizing the severity of the experience rather than a simple test.
The theological weight of basanizō lies in its contrast with refinement; while a touchstone tests metal to reveal value, this verb often describes punishment that destroys comfort. It serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of rebellion and the reality of divine judgment, portraying suffering not as a gentle correction but as a harsh, inescapable reality for those opposed to God.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word basanizō originally described testing metal against a touchstone to reveal its purity, but in Scripture it takes on a much heavier weight. It describes intense distress, whether from physical illness, demonic oppression, or the final judgment of God. When Jesus encounters those suffering under this torment, He does not ignore their pain; He steps into the chaos to bring relief and authority.
For believers, this word serves as a sobering reminder of the reality of evil and the seriousness of sin. It highlights that God is just and will ultimately deal with rebellion. Yet, it also points to His compassion. In Matthew 8, Jesus heals a servant who was grievously tormented, showing that He cares deeply about human suffering. We can trust that our righteous God sees our struggles and has the power to bring peace where there is torment.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 12 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- was tormented;1×
- tormented1×
- to torment1×
- they will torment [them]1×
- they will be tormented1×
- straining1×
- may torment.1×
- he will be tormented1×
- being tossed1×
- being tormented.1×
- being in pain1×
- You may torment!1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- βασανίσῃς.2×
- βασανισθήσονται2×
- ἐβασάνισαν1×
- ἐβασάνιζεν·1×
- βασανίσαι1×
- βασανισθήσεται1×
- βασανιζόμενος.1×
- βασανιζόμενον1×
- βασανιζομένους1×
- βασανιζομένη1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 8:6
saying, “Lord, my servant lies in the house paralyzed, grievously tormented.”
This verse shows Jesus responding with compassion to a servant suffering from severe physical and emotional distress, demonstrating His authority over human agony.
-
Revelation of John 14:10
he also will drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is prepared unmixed in the cup of his anger. He will be tormented with fire and sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb.
Here the word describes the final, eternal consequence of rejecting God, emphasizing the seriousness of divine judgment in the presence of the Lamb.
-
Mark 5:7
and crying out with a loud voice, he said, “What have I to do with you, Jesus, you Son of the Most High God? I adjure you by God, don’t torment me.”
A demoniac cries out not to be tormented further, illustrating the destructive power of evil forces that Jesus alone has authority to silence and cast out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Greek word basanizō mean?
How is basanizō different from other words for suffering?
Where does this word appear most frequently?
Every Occurrence (12 verses across 5 books)
Matthew 3 verses
saying, “Lord, my servant lies in the house paralyzed, grievously tormented.”
Matthew 8:29Behold, they cried out, saying, “What do we have to do with you, Jesus, Son of God? Have you come here to torment us…
Matthew 14:24But the boat was now in the middle of the sea, distressed by the waves, for the wind was contrary.