Bible Dictionary
STING
A sting is a sharp point or instrument that wounds by piercing. Scripture uses the image for the sting of animals and figuratively for death, whose power is connected with sin and whose fear is overcome through Christ.
Definition
A sting is a sharp-pointed organ or instrument that wounds by puncturing. Scripture speaks of the sting of an adder and of scorpions, and also uses the term for a goad or spur.
Biblical Usage
In the biblical image, death is portrayed as a deadly creature whose sting is sin. Death is powerless through sin, and when sin is conquered, the fear of death is removed. The same Greek word can also describe an instrument used to excite fear.
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>sting (parash, "to cut into"; kentron, "a goad," "spur"): A sharp, pointed organ or instrument for inflicting wounds by puncture; sting of an adder, Pr 23:32; of scorpions, Re 9:10. In the free quotation of 1Co 15:55 from Ho 13:14, death is personified as a deadly animal, like a scorpion or serpent, which inflicts destruction by means of sin as its kentron. It should also be remembered that in Ac 26:14 the same Greek word is used with reference to an instrument for exciting fear, rather than death. Both figures are pertinent; for death is powerless, except through sin, and, also, when sin is vanquished, the fear of death (Heb 2:15) is gone.</p><p>H. E. Jacobs</p>