παροργισμός (parorgismos)
parorgismos
anger
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun parorgismos refers to a sudden spark of anger or irritation, distinct from deep-seated wrath. It describes an emotional reaction provoked by a specific trigger rather than a permanent character trait. In Ephesians 4:26, Paul uses this term when quoting Scripture about not letting the sun go down on one’s anger. The context suggests that while such moments of frustration are human, they must not be allowed to fester into something more destructive.
This word carries a sense of being provoked or set on edge. It implies a temporary state of exasperation that arises in response to external circumstances or interactions. Unlike broader terms for anger that might suggest inherent hostility, parorgismos points to a reactive impulse. Translators often render it as "anger" or "wrath," but the nuance is closer to a flash of temper that requires immediate attention before it hardens into resentment.
The distinction lies in its fleeting nature compared to enduring rage. It is the kind of irritation that flares up in daily life—frustration with delay, offense at words, or annoyance with behavior. By naming this specific type of anger, the text acknowledges its reality while urging believers to address it quickly. The goal is not to suppress natural emotions but to prevent a momentary spark from becoming a lasting fire.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
We all experience moments when a comment or situation sparks a sudden flare of irritation. This Greek word captures that specific reaction—a temporary spark rather than a deep-seated character flaw. It acknowledges that feeling provoked is part of our human experience, but it also warns us against letting that initial heat linger.
Paul’s instruction in Ephesians reminds us to address these flashes quickly. By not letting the sun go down on your anger, we prevent a minor inconvenience from hardening into resentment. This approach does not ask you to suppress your feelings, but rather to process them with grace before they take root.
When you notice that spark rising, pause and seek peace immediately. This practice protects your heart and your relationships from unnecessary damage. It is an invitation to handle daily frustrations with the same care you would give a fragile treasure, ensuring that temporary emotions do not become permanent barriers to love.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- anger1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- παροργισμῷ1×
Key Verses
-
Ephesians 4:26
“Be angry, and don’t sin.” Don’t let the sun go down on your wrath,
This verse uses the term to define a specific type of anger that must be resolved quickly to avoid sin.