The word gnash is often used in the Bible to describe grinding or striking the teeth together. It usually appears in moments of anger, pain, or deep regret. To gnash the teeth paints a vivid picture of both outward expression and inward turmoil.
Gnash as Anger or Hatred
In Scripture, gnashing of teeth can be an act of hostility. When someone is so furious that words cannot express it, the body reacts instead. In the book of Acts, the religious leaders show this anger toward Stephen.
“When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth.” (Acts 7:54, KJV)
Here, gnashing was a violent reaction to Stephen’s testimony about Jesus.
Gnash as Suffering or Regret
Jesus often used the phrase “weeping and gnashing of teeth” when describing the eternal fate of the wicked. It conveys deep sorrow and unending regret.
“The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.” (Matthew 13:41-42, KJV)
This isn’t just physical pain but also the torment of realizing what has been lost.
Gnash in the Old Testament
The Psalms also show gnashing of teeth as a sign of hatred from enemies.
“They gaped upon me with their mouths, as a ravening and a roaring lion. They gnashed upon me with their teeth.” (Psalm 35:16, KJV)
Here, gnashing reveals the intensity of opposition against the psalmist.
Real-Life Understanding
Even today, we use the phrase “gritting your teeth” in frustration or pain. In moments of rage or sorrow, people naturally clench their jaw or grind their teeth. The Bible uses the same human expression to show what words often cannot capture.
Quick Reference Table
| Meaning of Gnash in Scripture | Example Verse | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Anger and hostility | Acts 7:54 | Violent reaction of Jewish leaders against Stephen |
| Eternal regret | Matthew 13:41-42 | Weeping and gnashing of teeth in hell |
| Hatred from enemies | Psalm 35:16 | Enemies show rage toward the psalmist |
| Deep suffering | Matthew 8:12 | Outer darkness with weeping and gnashing of teeth |
Hope Beyond Gnashing
While gnashing is tied to anger and sorrow, the Bible also points to the opposite—peace and joy in Christ. Instead of grinding teeth in regret, believers are promised rejoicing in God’s presence.
“And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain.” (Revelation 21:4, KJV)
