The meaning of “ὀργή”
Understanding orgḗ reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
anger, indignation, vengeance, wrath. - properly, desire (as a reaching forth or excitement of the mind), i.e. (by analo...
ὀργή
anger, indignation, vengeance, wrath. - properly, desire (as a reaching forth or excitement of the mind), i.e. (by analogy), violent passion (ire, or (justifiable) abhorrence) - by implication punishment
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 3:7 | “But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?” Word: ὀργή (orgḗ) | |
| Luke 21:23 | “But woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck, in those days! for there shall be great distress in the land, and wrath upon this people.” Word: ὀργή (orgḗ) | |
| Romans 5:9 | “Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.” Word: ὀργή (orgḗ) | |
| Colossians 3:8 | “But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.” Word: ὀργή (orgḗ) | |
| 1 Timothy 2:8 | “I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.” Word: ὀργή (orgḗ) |
Theological Word Study: Wrath
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Wrath, anger
The Hebrew aph (אַף) literally means 'nose' or 'nostrils,' idiomatically expressing wrath or anger—God's righteous indignation against sin. Yet God is 'slow to anger' (Exodus 34:6) and 'abundant in mercy.'
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Wrath, anger
The Greek orgē (ὀργή) means wrath—settled, righteous anger against sin. Believers are 'saved from wrath through him' (Romans 5:9), as Christ bore God's wrath on the cross, satisfying divine justice.