σκώληξ (skōlēx)
skōlēx
worm
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek noun skōlēx translates simply as "worm," but it refers specifically to the type that feeds on decaying flesh rather than harmless soil dwellers. This distinction carries a heavy weight, evoking images of decomposition and decay. In the Old Testament, which often uses this word for the Hebrew tolah, it appears in contexts of humiliation or destruction, setting a grim tone for its New Testament usage.
Mark 9:48 stands as the primary example, quoting Isaiah 66:24 to describe the unquenchable fire where "their worm does not die." Here, the creature symbolizes an internal, persistent torment that accompanies eternal separation from God. The image is not merely about physical pain but suggests a gnawing anguish that never ceases, reinforcing the seriousness of Jesus’ warnings about hell.
Translators typically keep the word literal as "worm" to preserve this visceral shock value. By avoiding softer terms like "pest," the text forces readers to confront the reality of spiritual decay. The metaphor relies on the natural behavior of these worms to illustrate a state of existence that is both undying and unsatisfied, leaving a lasting impression of finality.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word skōlēx points to a creature that feeds on decay, carrying a heavy weight of humiliation and destruction in biblical thought. When Jesus uses this image in Mark 9:48, He is not speaking merely about physical pain but about a persistent, gnawing anguish that accompanies eternal separation from God. This visceral metaphor forces us to confront the seriousness of turning away from Him.
Yet this stark warning serves as a profound invitation to cling to grace. The reality of spiritual decay highlights the immense value of our relationship with Christ, who offers life that does not fade or rot. We are called to cherish the peace He provides, knowing that in Him there is no such lingering torment, only the enduring hope of resurrection and restoration.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- worm3×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- σκώληξ3×
Key Verses
-
Mark 9:48
‘where their worm doesn’t die, and the fire is not quenched.’
This verse quotes Isaiah 66:24 to describe the unquenchable fire where their worm does not die, symbolizing persistent torment in eternal separation from God.
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Mark 9:44
‘where their worm doesn’t die, and the fire is not quenched.’
Here the phrase appears as part of Jesus' warning about Gehenna, emphasizing the undying nature of spiritual decay for those who reject Him.
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Mark 9:46
‘where their worm doesn’t die, and the fire is not quenched.’
This repetition reinforces the gravity of the warning, using the same imagery to underscore the finality of judgment without repentance.