μώλωψ (mōlōps)

The noun mōlōps refers to a physical wound, specifically one that appears as a bruise or a welt from scourging. It is a rare word in Scripture, appearing only once in the New Testament at 1 Peter 2:24. The term describes the visible marks left on the skin after a beating, capturing the tangible reality of physical suffering.

Its usage connects directly to the Old Testament concept of injury as punishment, reflecting how it translates Hebrew terms for stripes or bruises in passages like Exodus 21:25. Peter uses this specific image to remind believers that Jesus bore the full force of violent punishment on the cross, with these marks serving as evidence of his sacrifice.

The word highlights the brutal nature of Roman execution methods, where scourging left deep, bloody welts. By focusing on these physical traces, the text emphasizes that redemption was achieved through real bodily harm, not merely a spiritual abstraction. The emphasis remains on the concrete cost of forgiveness paid through suffering.