πρηνής (prēnēs)
prēnēs
headlong
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective prēnēs describes a state of being headlong or prone, specifically referring to a fall that is sudden and uncontrolled. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in Acts 1:18, where it characterizes the death of Judas Iscariot. The word conveys more than just falling; it implies a violent collapse where the body strikes the ground face down.
Its usage is stark and physical, focusing on the finality of the event rather than spiritual symbolism. By choosing this term, the text emphasizes the gruesome nature of Judas’s demise, distinguishing it from a simple accident or a peaceful passing. The word serves as a vivid, concrete marker of judgment and disgrace in the narrative.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word prēnēs appears only once in the New Testament, describing a sudden, violent fall. It paints a stark picture of Judas Iscariot’s death in Acts 1:18. This is not a gentle passing but a tragic end marked by disgrace and physical ruin.
While the scene is grim, it highlights the serious consequences of betrayal. The text does not focus on spiritual symbolism here but on the reality of broken trust. It reminds us that actions have weight and that turning away from grace leads to destruction.
This single occurrence serves as a sobering reminder of the value of faithfulness. It invites reflection on how we hold onto our commitments and the importance of remaining grounded in truth rather than drifting into despair or deceit.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- headlong1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- πρηνὴς1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 1:18
Now this man obtained a field with the reward for his wickedness; and falling headlong, his body burst open and all his intestines gushed out.
This is the only New Testament occurrence, using prēnēs to describe Judas's violent fall and the gruesome nature of his death.