Lexical Summary psuchos: cold Original Word: ψυχός Strong's Exhaustive Concordance cold. From psucho; coolness -- cold. see GREEK psucho NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom psuchó Definition cold NASB Translation cold (3). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 5592: ψῦχοςψῦχος (R G Tr WH), more correctly ψῦχος (L T; cf. (Tdf. Proleg., p. 102); Lipsius, Grammat. Untersuch., p. 44f), ψύχους, τό, (ψύχω, which see), from Homer down, cold: John 18:18; Acts 28:2; 2 Corinthians 11:27; for קֹר, Genesis 8:22; for קָרָה, Psalm 147:6(17); Job 37:8. Topical Lexicon Overview of New Testament Usage Strong’s Greek 5592 appears three times, always in a literal sense describing low temperature or chill in the air: Each occurrence anchors a distinctive theological theme while preserving a vivid historical setting. Physical Hardship and Apostolic Endurance 2 Corinthians 11:27 places “cold and exposure” among Paul’s sufferings. The chill is more than meteorological; it testifies to a willingness to surrender personal comfort for the advance of the gospel. The apostle’s resume of deprivation underscores four ministry principles: 1. Authenticity: bodily discomfort validates the sincerity of his message (compare Galatians 6:17). Contrast Between Warmth and Cold in the Johannine Narrative John 18:18 frames Peter’s denial against the backdrop of a cold courtyard. The evangelist’s detail performs literary and pastoral work: Hospitality and Christian Compassion Acts 28:2 commends the Maltese islanders who “kindled a fire and welcomed all of us because it was raining and cold”. Luke’s notice elevates: Historical and Climatic Background Mediterranean winters can be harsh, especially in elevated Judean terrain or storm-tossed sea voyages. Cloaks were essential (2 Timothy 4:13), and open-air fires common (John 18:18). The realism of the narratives reinforces the reliability of the witness and aids modern readers in visualizing first-century life. Old Testament Resonance While the Hebrew Scriptures employ different vocabulary, the motif of cold appears: These parallels enrich the New Testament scenes, showing continuity in Scripture’s portrayal of climate as a stage for moral decision. Theological and Pastoral Implications 1. God’s servants are not insulated from elemental hardship; mission often unfolds in discomfort. Application for Contemporary Ministry • Prioritize relief ministries in winter months; supply blankets, heaters, and fellowship to the vulnerable. Strong’s 5592 therefore extends well beyond meteorology; it illumines endurance, compassion, and divine care, urging believers to warm the world with both the truth and the tangible love of Christ. Forms and Transliterations ψυχει ψύχει ψυχος ψύχος ψῦχος ψύχους psuchei psuchos psychei psýchei psychos psýchosLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance John 18:18 N-NNSGRK: πεποιηκότες ὅτι ψύχος ἦν καὶ NAS: a charcoal fire, for it was cold and they were warming KJV: it was cold: and INT: having made for cold it was and Acts 28:2 N-ANS 2 Corinthians 11:27 N-DNS Strong's Greek 5592 |