ὑπωπιάζω (hupōpiazō)
hupōpiazō
to wear out
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb hupōpiazō literally means to strike under the eye, producing a black eye or bruise. In Scripture it carries two distinct applications: persistent annoyance and severe self-discipline. In Luke 18:6, Jesus uses it metaphorically for a widow who wears out an unjust judge through relentless pleading, illustrating how constant pressure can exhaust even a reluctant opponent.
Paul employs the same word in 1 Corinthians 9:27 to describe his own physical training. He speaks of buffeting his body and bringing it into subjection, using the image of a boxer who disciplines himself through rigorous practice. This usage highlights intentional self-control rather than external harassment, showing how the word can denote internal restraint.
The term combines a prefix meaning "under" with a root related to the eye or face, emphasizing direct, visible impact. Translators often render it as "wear out" or "buffet," capturing the physical toll of either external pestering or internal discipline. Both contexts share a core idea: something is being pressed down until it yields.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word hupōpiazō paints a vivid picture of pressure that leaves a mark. In Luke 18:5, it describes a widow whose persistent pleas eventually wear out an unjust judge. This image reminds us that consistent faith can move even the hardest hearts. When we pray with steady endurance, we trust that God hears our cries, just as the judge finally acted to stop the annoyance.
Paul uses this same term in 1 Corinthians 9:27 to describe his own discipline. He speaks of beating his body to keep it in check, ensuring he does not become disqualified after preaching to others. This is not about self-hatred but about focused self-control. It shows that spiritual goals require physical and mental effort.
We face different kinds of pressure today. Sometimes we feel worn down by external struggles or the persistence of our own needs. At other times, we must discipline ourselves to stay on the path of faith. Both situations call for endurance. Whether we are waiting on God’s justice or working to keep our lives aligned with His will, this word encourages us that persistent effort matters.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- she may exhaust1×
- I batter1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ὑπωπιάζῃ1×
- ὑπωπιάζω1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 18:5
yet because this widow bothers me, I will defend her, or else she will wear me out by her continual coming.’”
This verse shows the word describing external pressure from a persistent widow wearing out a reluctant judge.
-
I Corinthians 9:27
but I beat my body and bring it into submission, lest by any means, after I have preached to others, I myself should be disqualified.
Here Paul uses the term to describe internal discipline, buffeting his own body to maintain spiritual focus.