The term "grievous" in the Bible is often used to describe something that is severe, burdensome, or causing great sorrow. It is a word that conveys the weight of suffering, sin, or judgment, and is used in various contexts throughout Scripture to highlight the intensity of certain experiences or actions.

Old Testament Usage

In the Old Testament, "grievous" is frequently associated with sin and its consequences. For example, in Genesis 18:20, the Lord describes the sin of Sodom and Gomorrah as "grievous," indicating the severe nature of their wickedness: "Then the LORD said, 'The outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah is great. Because their sin is so grievous.'" This usage underscores the seriousness with which God views sin and the inevitable judgment that follows.

The term is also used to describe the burdens and sufferings of life. In Job 6:2-3, Job laments his suffering, saying, "If only my grief could be weighed and my calamity placed with it on the scales. For then it would outweigh the sand of the seas—no wonder my words have been rash." Here, "grievous" captures the overwhelming nature of Job's afflictions.

New Testament Usage

In the New Testament, "grievous" is often used to describe the challenges and trials faced by believers. In Hebrews 12:11, the author writes, "No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but grievous. Later on, however, it yields a harvest of righteousness and peace to those who have been trained by it." This passage highlights the difficult yet ultimately beneficial nature of divine discipline.

The Apostle Paul also uses the term in Acts 20:29 to warn the Ephesian elders about future threats to the church: "I know that after my departure, grievous wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock." Here, "grievous" describes the dangerous and destructive nature of false teachers who would seek to harm the church.

Theological Implications

The use of "grievous" in Scripture often points to the reality of sin and suffering in a fallen world. It serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance and redemption. At the same time, it acknowledges the trials and tribulations that believers may face, encouraging them to endure with the hope of future glory.

In a broader theological context, the concept of "grievous" underscores the importance of understanding the weight of sin and the necessity of God's grace. It calls believers to a life of holiness and perseverance, trusting in God's ultimate justice and mercy.

The Heart of the Gospel
... We forget to do what we ought to do, or, doing it, we are guilty of lukewarmness,
self-reliance, unbelief, or some other grievious error. ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 32 1886/the heart of the gospel.htm

Grievious (1 Occurrence)
...Grievious (1 Occurrence). Jeremiah 10:19 Wo to me for my breaking, Grievious hath
been my smiting, And I said, Only, this 'is' my sickness, and I bear it. (YLT) ...
/g/grievious.htm - 6k

Grievingly (1 Occurrence)

/g/grievingly.htm - 6k

Grievous (73 Occurrences)

/g/grievous.htm - 31k

Breaking (69 Occurrences)
... (WEB JPS ASV DBY NAS RSV NIV). Jeremiah 10:19 Wo to me for my breaking, Grievious
hath been my smiting, And I said, Only, this 'is' my sickness, and I bear it. ...
/b/breaking.htm - 27k

Smiting (76 Occurrences)
... (YLT). Jeremiah 10:19 Wo to me for my breaking, Grievious hath been my smiting,
And I said, Only, this 'is' my sickness, and I bear it. (YLT). ...
/s/smiting.htm - 31k

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