στυγνάζω (stugnazō)
stugnazō
be gloomy
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb stugnazō describes a deep, visible sorrow that darkens one’s expression. It conveys more than fleeting sadness; it implies a somber or gloomy countenance, as if a shadow has fallen over the face. This word is rare in the New Testament, appearing only twice, both times in the Synoptic Gospels to describe a specific emotional reaction.
In Mark 10:22, the term captures the rich young ruler’s response when Jesus invites him to sell his possessions. The text notes that he went away sorrowful, his face reflecting the weight of his attachment to wealth. This usage highlights how internal grief manifests externally in a withdrawn, heavy demeanor. Some manuscripts also suggest its use in Matthew 16:3 regarding ominous clouds, though this reading is less certain.
Its root connects to ideas of gloom and shock, emphasizing a sudden or profound shift in mood that affects one’s physical appearance. Translators often render it as "sorrowful" or "gloomy," capturing the visible heaviness of the heart. The word serves as a stark illustration of how spiritual conflict can leave a tangible mark on a person’s countenance.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word stugnazō paints a picture of sorrow so heavy it changes how we look. It describes a face that darkens, not with simple disappointment, but with a deep, visible grief. This is the kind of sadness that settles in when our heart’s treasures are challenged by God’s call.
When the rich young ruler heard Jesus’ invitation, his expression shifted instantly. The weight of his possessions became too heavy to bear alongside the Kingdom. His gloom was not just a mood; it was a physical sign of spiritual conflict. It reminds us that what we hold onto can sometimes block the light of grace from reaching our faces.
Yet this word also shows the reality of our struggles. We do not hide our pain behind a mask. Instead, we bring our heavy hearts to Jesus. He sees the shadow on our face and offers a peace that lifts the weight, inviting us to lay down what burdens us and find rest in Him.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- having been sad1×
- being overcast1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- στυγνάσας1×
- στυγνάζων1×
Key Verses
-
Mark 10:22
But his face fell at that saying, and he went away sorrowful, for he was one who had great possessions.
This verse captures the word’s primary meaning by linking the ruler’s darkened expression directly to his inability to let go of his wealth.
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Matthew 16:3
In the morning, ‘It will be foul weather today, for the sky is red and threatening.’ Hypocrites! You know how to discern the appearance of the sky, but you can’t discern the signs of the times!
Here the term is applied metaphorically to a threatening sky, showing how the concept of gloom extends to ominous signs in nature.