παροργίζω (parorgizō)
parorgizō
to anger
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb parorgizō describes the act of provoking someone to anger or exasperation. It carries a sense of rousing wrath, often by pushing past reasonable limits. In the New Testament, this word appears only twice, both in Paul’s letters, where it serves as a warning against behaviors that stir up hostile feelings in others.
Its meaning is built from two parts: a prefix suggesting proximity or intensity, and a root related to anger or wrath. This construction implies more than simple irritation; it points to an active provocation that leads to deep-seated resentment. The sources note its use in the Septuagint for similar Hebrew terms, linking it to moments where relationships are strained by deliberate action.
In Ephesians 6:4, Paul instructs fathers not to provoke their children to anger, highlighting how parental authority can easily cross into exasperation if misused. Similarly, in Romans 10:19, he quotes the Old Testament to show how God’s people provoked Him to jealousy through unfaithfulness. The word underscores the danger of actions that intentionally or carelessly damage trust and harmony.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word parorgizō describes a specific kind of anger—one that is provoked by our actions toward others. It suggests pushing someone past their limits until they become resentful or hostile. This is not about minor annoyances, but about behaviors that actively damage relationships and stir up deep-seated frustration in those we care about.
In Ephesians 6:4, Paul warns fathers not to provoke their children to wrath. He does this because parental authority can easily cross into exasperation if it is exercised without grace. The instruction to nurture children in discipline and instruction stands in contrast to provoking them. This balance reminds us that leadership and care require patience and sensitivity to the feelings of others.
Understanding this word helps us examine our own interactions. We all have moments when we might unintentionally push someone too far. By being mindful of how our words and actions affect those around us, we can foster peace rather than conflict. This awareness is a practical step toward living in harmony with our family, friends, and community.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- do provoke1×
- I will anger1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- παροργίζετε1×
- παροργιῶ1×
Key Verses
-
Ephesians 6:4
You fathers, don’t provoke your children to wrath, but nurture them in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.
This verse applies the warning to fathers, showing how authority can easily become a source of resentment if not balanced with nurturing care.
-
Romans 10:19
But I ask, didn’t Israel know? First Moses says, “I will provoke you to jealousy with that which is no nation. I will make you angry with a nation void of understanding.”
Paul quotes Moses here to illustrate how Israel provoked God to jealousy through their unfaithfulness, highlighting the serious relational consequences of turning away from trust.