σκώληξ

The word σκώληξ (skōlēx) in the Greek New Testament is defined as a worm. It appears three times in the Bible. This single occurrence of a worm suggests its meaning is not nuanced or complex. The fact that it is only used three times implies its usage is limited. The meaning of a worm is likely to be understood by the ancient Greek audience as a crawling, invertebrate animal. In a biblical context, the word's significance may arise from its associations with dirtiness, decay, or harm, as certain types of worms can damage crops or soil. Without more context, the significance of σκώληξ to a general audience remains abstract. The occurrences of the word are likely to be in descriptions of soil, decay, or damage, rather than the worms themselves.