βρυγμός (brugmos)
brugmos
gnashing
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 7 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun brugmos refers to the sharp sound of teeth grinding or gnashing together. In the New Testament, it appears exclusively in the Gospels to describe the reaction of those excluded from God’s kingdom. The word conveys more than simple anger; it signals intense anguish and despair, often linked with weeping and darkness.
This term is rooted in the verb brugō, meaning to gnash or snap. Its seven occurrences are concentrated in Matthew’s parables and teachings, such as the warning about many seeking entry only to find the door shut (Luke 13:28) or the fate of the wicked servant (Matthew 24:51). The imagery suggests a visceral expression of regret and hopelessness rather than mere rage.
Translators typically render brugmos as "gnashing of teeth," preserving the physical intensity of the original. The sources highlight its association with eternal punishment, portraying it as the outward sign of inner torment for those who miss the invitation to the feast.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word brugmos describes the sharp, involuntary sound of teeth grinding together. In the New Testament, it appears only in the Gospels to depict a state of intense anguish and despair. It is not merely anger, but a visceral expression of regret for those who realize they have missed the invitation to God’s kingdom. This imagery highlights the seriousness of our response to Jesus’ call.
For your faith, this word serves as a sobering reminder of the eternal weight of choice. It underscores that the Kingdom is real and that exclusion from it brings profound sorrow. Rather than focusing on fear, let this truth drive you to appreciate the grace offered now. The invitation to the feast is open, and entering through faith brings peace rather than despair.
When we reflect on these warnings, we are invited to examine our own hearts. Do we treat God’s grace as casual or precious? This word calls us to respond with urgency and gratitude. May you find comfort in knowing that the door of mercy stands wide open for all who seek it with sincere faith.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 7 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- gnashing7×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- βρυγμὸς7×
Key Verses
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Matthew 8:12
but the children of the Kingdom will be thrown out into the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”
This verse contrasts the blessed status of kingdom children with the exclusion of others, using gnashing of teeth to mark the finality of that separation.
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Luke 13:28
There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth when you see Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and all the prophets in God’s Kingdom, and yourselves being thrown outside.
Here the anguish is linked to seeing patriarchs in the Kingdom while being cast out oneself, emphasizing personal regret over historical proximity.
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Matthew 25:30
Throw out the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’
In this parable, the unprofitable servant faces outer darkness and gnashing of teeth, illustrating the consequence of neglecting entrusted grace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Greek word brugmos mean?
Why is gnashing of teeth mentioned in the Gospels?
How is brugmos different from simple anger?
Where does this word appear most frequently?
Every Occurrence (7 verses across 2 books)
Matthew 6 verses
but the children of the Kingdom will be thrown out into the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of…
Matthew 13:42and will cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Matthew 13:50and will cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”
Matthew 22:13Then the king said to the servants, ‘Bind him hand and foot, take him away, and throw him into the outer darkness. That…
Matthew 24:51and will cut him in pieces and appoint his portion with the hypocrites. That is where the weeping and grinding of teeth…
Matthew 25:30Throw out the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’