[Greek] στενοχωρέω (stenochōreō), [Latin] patere, [Latin] angustiare, [French] souffrir, [French] endurer: to make narrow, to compress, to restrain, to restrict, to distress; 2Cor.4:8, 2Cor.6:12
More and more govt. localities, businesses, and entertainment venues are now requiring proof of vaccinations. This is now becoming a modern variation of the iconic police state asking individuals for their papers. Government authorities and business are constraining individuals’ freedom under the guise of public health.
Background information:
Greek Hellenism: This term means to confine, to squeeze, and to compress, to be anxious, and to be in difficulty. This term can pertain to stresses of inner or outer problems and difficulties. Hippocrates’ Praeceptiones 8 states “A physician does not violate etiquette if, being in difficulties over a patient, should urge the calling of others.” Euripides’ Medea 57 states “So great is the grief I feel that the desire stole over me to come out and speak my mistress’ troubles to the earth and sky.”
Old Testament: This term means to narrow, to confine, to press, to urge, to bind, to be in distress, to tie up, and to make narrow. And the one who hurries his footsteps errs (Jos. 17:15). It came about when she pressed him daily with her words and urged him, his soul was annoyed to death (Jdg.16:16). Be hostile to the Midianites and attack them (Num.25:17). I am very distressed, for the Phillistines are waging war against me (1Sam.28:15). As a shattering of my bones, my adversaries taunt me (Psa.31:11).
New Testament: This term means to be afflicted and to be constrained. Paul relates the paradox of his apostolic trials and difficulties. Despite the trials, there is always a sense of rescue and salvation. Paul, his heart open wide, has great acceptance and affection for the Corinthians. However, the Corinthians are not as accepting of Paul. The Corinthians’ hearts are constrained by prejudices, antipathy, passions, and mistaken misapprehensions. The cause of these troubles come form the Corinthians themselves.
Scripture:
“We are afflicted in every way, but not constrained; perplexed, but not driven to despair.” 2Cor.4:8
Paul relates the trials of his ministry, yet still remaining hopeful.
“You are not constrained by us; you are constrained by your own affections.” 2Cor.6:12
Paul has affection for the Corinthians. Yet the Corinthians’ hearts are constrained by passions, anger, and prejudices.
The state police requiring individuals to show their papers. (“We must see your papers.”)
Conclusion:
Passion, passionate, suffer, suffering, anguish, endure, enduring
This term essentially means to constrict or to make narrow. This meaning can extend to being narrow-minded and having difficulties.
The Old Testament introduces the notion of constricting or narrowing one’s heart in refusing to show compassion, empathy, or affection. Paul showed great affection for the Corinthians. However, the Corinthians’ hearts were constrained with bitterness, passions, and prejudices. Paul remains hopeful during the afflictions in his ministry.
I am not constrained in keeping this posting short.