δάκνω (daknō)
daknō
to bite
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb daknō describes the sharp, sudden action of biting with teeth. While it literally refers to an animal or insect inflicting pain through a bite, the New Testament uses it in a single metaphorical instance to describe human conflict. In Galatians 5:15, Paul warns believers that if they bite and devour one another, they will destroy each other completely.
This usage draws on the physical reality of a painful bite to illustrate the destructive nature of harsh words and mutual hostility. The image suggests that verbal attacks can wound the soul as effectively as teeth wound flesh, tearing apart community bonds. Translators typically render this as "bite," preserving the visceral intensity of the original Greek.
Its rarity in Scripture highlights the severity Paul attaches to internal church strife. By comparing slander and criticism to a predatory bite, he emphasizes that such behavior is not merely rude but spiritually lethal, capable of consuming the very relationships it targets.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word daknō paints a vivid picture of sharp, sudden pain. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in Galatians 5:15. Paul uses this visceral image to warn believers against biting and devouring one another. This is not just about being rude or having a bad temper; it describes a destructive cycle of hostility that tears apart community bonds.
When we engage in harsh criticism or slander, we inflict wounds on the soul as effectively as teeth wound flesh. Such behavior is spiritually lethal, capable of consuming the very relationships it targets. Paul’s warning reminds us that verbal attacks are not minor infractions but serious threats to unity and peace within the body of Christ.
Reflecting on this word invites us to examine our own speech and attitudes toward others. It calls for a commitment to gentleness and mutual edification, recognizing that our words have the power to build up or tear down. By avoiding the sharp bite of criticism, we can foster an environment where love and understanding flourish, strengthening our shared faith journey.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- you bite1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- δάκνετε1×
Key Verses
-
Galatians 5:15
But if you bite and devour one another, be careful that you don’t consume one another.
Paul uses daknō here to illustrate how mutual hostility and harsh words can lead to complete destruction within the community.