σμυρνίζω
smyrnízō
G4669 verb
SILEX Entry
Definition
To mix with myrrh, to infuse with myrrh. The term primarily signifies the act of adding or blending myrrh (an aromatic gum) with another substance (often wine), resulting in an infusion or tincture that acquires the scent, flavor, or sometimes the narcotic or medicinal properties of myrrh. The verb extends to contexts where myrrh is used for preserving bodies, perfuming, or in ancient pharmacology, usually with a focus on the process of blending rather than the result.
Semantic Range
to flavor with myrrh, to perfume with myrrh, to embalm with myrrh, to use myrrh as an additive (especially in wine), to prepare (a liquid or substance) by mixing myrrh
Root / Etymology
From σμύρνα (myrrh) + the verbal suffix -ίζω, forming a denominative verb meaning 'to use or treat with myrrh.'
Historical & Contextual Notes
Classical and Hellenistic Greek rarely attests this verb; it is a late and specialized term, appearing in sources where the blending of myrrh—particularly with wine—is described. In the New Testament (e.g., Mark 15:23), it specifically refers to wine mixed with myrrh, offered as a mild sedative or anesthetic. In broader Greek usage, the practice of flavoring or scenting substances with myrrh was common in funerary, cosmetic, and medicinal contexts. The term focuses on the preparation or process, not merely the result. Standard English translations often obscure the nuance by rendering as 'mingled with myrrh,' which may not capture the medicinal or funerary intent.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from Σμύρνα; to tincture with myrrh, i.e. embitter (as a narcotic):--mingle with myrrh.
Root Family
σμυρν- (smýrna) — resin, myrrh, aromatic gum
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4669-01 |
ἐσμυρνισμένον | esmurnismenon | V PRF PASS PTCP ACC M SG |
mingled with myrrh | having been myrrh-infused | having been myrrh-infused | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4669-01 |
Mark 15:23 | ἐσμυρνισμένον | esmurnismenon | V PRF PASS PTCP ACC M SG |
mingled with myrrh | having been myrrh-infused | having been myrrh-infused |