νύσσω (nussō)
nussō
to pierce
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb nussō means to pierce or prick, often implying a sharp, penetrating action that can cause severe injury. In the New Testament, it is used sparingly but with significant visual impact, appearing in only two verses. Its force comes from the physicality of the act: it describes something entering deeply into flesh, rather than just touching the surface.
The most notable usage occurs in John 19:34, where a soldier pierces Jesus’ side with a spear after his death. This specific instance highlights the finality and reality of the crucifixion, providing concrete evidence of life having ceased. The word choice emphasizes the thoroughness of the wound, ensuring no ambiguity about the outcome.
While the sources note its presence in the Septuagint (Sirach 22:19), its New Testament appearance is distinctively tied to this pivotal moment. Translators typically render it as "pierced," capturing the sudden, sharp nature of the action. The term serves not just as a description of violence, but as a marker of historical fact in the Gospel narrative.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word nussō describes a sharp, penetrating action that goes deep into flesh. In John 19:34, a soldier uses it to pierce Jesus’ side with a spear. This detail is not just about violence; it confirms the reality of Christ’s death. The physicality of the act leaves no room for doubt that life had truly ceased.
For your faith, this word anchors the historical truth of the crucifixion. It shows that Jesus did not merely appear to die but experienced the full weight of human suffering. This concrete evidence supports the claim that He gave His life voluntarily. The piercing confirms the sacrifice was real and complete.
When you read this account, remember that the same body that suffered this wound rose again. The depth of the pain points to the depth of God’s love. You can trust in a Savior who fully entered into human experience to bring you hope.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- pierced,1×
- pierced1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἔνυξεν,1×
- ἔνυξεν1×
Key Verses
-
John 19:34
However, one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out.
The verb nussō describes the soldier's spear entering Jesus' side, providing physical proof that death had occurred.