πυκνός (puknos)
puknos
often
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective puknos describes something that is dense, compact, or thick. In its literal sense, it refers to physical solidity, such as a thicket of trees in the Septuagint’s translation of Ezekiel 31:3. This concrete imagery of closeness extends into temporal usage, where it characterizes events that occur with high frequency.
In the New Testament, the neuter plural form functions adverbially to mean "often" or "much." Mark records Jesus noting that religious leaders were often fasting (Mark 7:3), while Luke highlights how frequently Pharisees questioned John the Baptist (Luke 5:33). The comparative form appears in Acts 24:26, describing Felix summoning Paul very often. Timothy is also instructed to drink wine often for health reasons (1 Timothy 5:23).
This word captures a sense of repetition that feels substantial rather than fleeting. It suggests an action or state that recurs with regularity and weight, marking habits or interactions that are persistent in nature.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word often carries a sense of weight and substance. It is not about fleeting moments or casual habits, but rather actions that recur with regularity and importance. When we encounter this term in Scripture, it reminds us that consistency matters to God.
In 1 Timothy 5:23, Paul advises Timothy to use wine often for his health. This practical instruction shows that caring for our bodies is part of faithful living. Regular care, even in small ways, supports the work we are called to do.
Similarly, Acts 24:26 notes that Felix summoned Paul often. These repeated interactions highlight how persistent engagement can lead to deeper understanding, even when outcomes remain uncertain. We find comfort in knowing that God values our steady, faithful presence over time.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- often2×
- frequent1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- πυκνότερον1×
- πυκνάς1×
- πυκνὰ1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 5:33
They said to him, “Why do John’s disciples often fast and pray, likewise also the disciples of the Pharisees, but yours eat and drink?”
This verse contrasts the frequent fasting of John's disciples with Jesus' different approach to religious practice.
-
Acts 24:26
Meanwhile, he also hoped that money would be given to him by Paul, that he might release him. Therefore also he sent for him more often and talked with him.
Felix's repeated summoning of Paul demonstrates a persistent, though ultimately unfruitful, desire for interaction.
-
I Timothy 5:23
Be no longer a drinker of water only, but use a little wine for your stomach’s sake and your frequent infirmities.
Paul's advice to use wine often provides a practical example of regular care for physical well-being.