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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>2 Corinthians 4:8 We are hard pressed on all sides, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair;</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/2_corinthians/4-8.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/16/47_2Co_04_08.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="2 Corinthians 4:8 - Treasures in Jars of Clay" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="We are hard pressed on all sides, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair;" /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script> <script src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/biblehub.js' type='text/javascript'></script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/2_corinthians/4-8.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/2_corinthians/4-8.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/2_corinthians/">2 Corinthians</a> > <a href="/2_corinthians/4.htm">Chapter 4</a> > Verse 8</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad1.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/2_corinthians/4-7.htm" title="2 Corinthians 4:7">◄</a> 2 Corinthians 4:8 <a href="/2_corinthians/4-9.htm" title="2 Corinthians 4:9">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Study Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Crossref </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comment </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/4.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/4.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/4.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/2_corinthians/4.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/4.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />We are hard pressed on all sides, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/2_corinthians/4.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />being hard pressed in every <i>way</i> but not being crushed, being perplexed but not despairing,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/4.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br /><i>We are</i> troubled on every side, yet not distressed; <i>we are</i> perplexed, but not in despair;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/2_corinthians/4.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br /><i>We are</i> hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; <i>we are</i> perplexed, but not in despair;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/2_corinthians/4.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br /><i>we are</i> afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/4.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/2_corinthians/4.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br /><i>we are</i> afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/2_corinthians/4.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />in every way afflicted, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/2_corinthians/4.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />We are pressured in every way [hedged in], but not crushed; perplexed [unsure of finding a way out], but not driven to despair;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/2_corinthians/4.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />We are afflicted in every way but not crushed; we are perplexed but not in despair;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/2_corinthians/4.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />We are pressured in every way but not crushed; we are perplexed but not in despair; <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/2_corinthians/4.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />we are pressed on every side, yet not straitened; perplexed, yet not unto despair;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/2_corinthians/4.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />We often suffer, but we are never crushed. Even when we don't know what to do, we never give up. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/2_corinthians/4.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />we are pressed on every side, yet not straitened; perplexed, yet not unto despair;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/2_corinthians/4.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />In every way we're troubled, but we aren't crushed by our troubles. We're frustrated, but we don't give up.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/2_corinthians/4.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />We are often troubled, but not crushed; sometimes in doubt, but never in despair; <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/2_corinthians/4.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />In every way we're troubled but not crushed, frustrated but not in despair, <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/2_corinthians/4.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />We are hard pressed on all sides, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/2_corinthians/4.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />We are experiencing trouble on every side, but are not crushed; we are perplexed, but not driven to despair;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/2_corinthians/4.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />We are pressed on every side, yet not crushed; perplexed, yet not to despair;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/2_corinthians/4.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/2_corinthians/4.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />We are hard pressed, yet never in absolute distress; perplexed, yet never utterly baffled;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/2_corinthians/4.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />We are pressed on every side, yet not crushed; perplexed, yet not to despair; <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/2_corinthians/4.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />being in tribulation in every [way], but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/2_corinthians/4.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />being hard pressed in every <i>way</i> but not being crushed, being perplexed but not despairing,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/2_corinthians/4.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> on every side being in tribulation, but not straitened; perplexed, but not in despair;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/2_corinthians/4.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />Being pressed in every thing, but not straightened; being at a loss, but not utterly perplexed;<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/2_corinthians/4.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />In all things we suffer tribulation, but are not distressed; we are straitened, but are not destitute; <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/2_corinthians/4.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />In all things, we endure tribulation, yet we are not in anguish. We are constrained, yet we are not destitute.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/2_corinthians/4.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />We are afflicted in every way, but not constrained; perplexed, but not driven to despair;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/2_corinthians/4.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair;<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/2_corinthians/4.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />We are distressed in every way, but not overwhelmed; we are harassed on all sides, but not conquered;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/aramaic-plain-english/2_corinthians/4.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a></span><br />For we are squeezed in all things, but we are not strangled; we are harassed, but we are not condemned.<div class="vheading2"><b>NT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/anderson/2_corinthians/4.htm">Anderson New Testament</a></span><br />We are pressed on all sides, yet not restrained; perplexed, but not in despair;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/godbey/2_corinthians/4.htm">Godbey New Testament</a></span><br />in everything being troubled, but not in difficulties incorrigible; being at a loss, but not utterly at a loss;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/haweis/2_corinthians/4.htm">Haweis New Testament</a></span><br />We are afflicted on every side, yet not reduced to extremities; under difficulties, yet not in despair;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/mace/2_corinthians/4.htm">Mace New Testament</a></span><br />I am press'd on every side, yet not crush'd; perplexed, but not in despair;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/2_corinthians/4.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />We are hard pressed, yet never in absolute distress; perplexed, yet never utterly baffled;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worrell/2_corinthians/4.htm">Worrell New Testament</a></span><br />being pressed on every side, yet not cooped up; perplexed, yet not despairing;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worsley/2_corinthians/4.htm">Worsley New Testament</a></span><br />being afflicted on every <i>side,</i> but not oppressed; perplexed, but not in despair;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/2_corinthians/4-8.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ddheG4hMg28?start=645" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/4.htm">Treasures in Jars of Clay</a></span><br><span class="reftext">7</span>Now we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this surpassingly great power is from God and not from us. <span class="reftext">8</span><span class="highl"><a href="/greek/2346.htm" title="2346: thlibomenoi (V-PPM/P-NMP) -- (a) I make narrow (strictly: by pressure); I press upon, (b) I persecute, press hard. Akin to the base of tribos; to crowd.">We are hard pressed</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">on</a> <a href="/greek/3956.htm" title="3956: panti (Adj-DNS) -- All, the whole, every kind of. Including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole.">all sides,</a> <a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: all’ (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.">but</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ou (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.">not</a> <a href="/greek/4729.htm" title="4729: stenochōroumenoi (V-PPM/P-NMP) -- From the same as stenochoria; to hem in closely, i.e. cramp.">crushed;</a> <a href="/greek/639.htm" title="639: aporoumenoi (V-PPM-NMP) -- From a compound of a and the base of poreuomai; to have no way out, i.e. Be at a loss.">perplexed,</a> <a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: all’ (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.">but</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ouk (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.">not</a> <a href="/greek/1820.htm" title="1820: exaporoumenoi (V-PPM/P-NMP) -- To be utterly without resource, be in despair. Middle voice from ek and aporeo; to be utterly at a loss, i.e. Despond.">in despair;</a> </span> <span class="reftext">9</span>persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/8-35.htm">Romans 8:35-37</a></span><br />Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or distress or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? / As it is written: “For Your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” / No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/philippians/4-12.htm">Philippians 4:12-13</a></span><br />I know how to live humbly, and I know how to abound. In any and every situation I have learned the secret of being filled and being hungry, of having plenty and having need. / I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/1-2.htm">James 1:2-4</a></span><br />Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, / because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. / Allow perseverance to finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_peter/1-6.htm">1 Peter 1:6-7</a></span><br />In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in various trials / so that the proven character of your faith—more precious than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_peter/4-12.htm">1 Peter 4:12-13</a></span><br />Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial that has come upon you, as though something strange were happening to you. / But rejoice that you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed at the revelation of His glory.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/john/16-33.htm">John 16:33</a></span><br />I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world!”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/14-22.htm">Acts 14:22</a></span><br />strengthening the souls of the disciples and encouraging them to continue in the faith. “We must endure many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_timothy/3-12.htm">2 Timothy 3:12</a></span><br />Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/5-10.htm">Matthew 5:10-12</a></span><br />Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. / Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. / Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets before you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/hebrews/12-1.htm">Hebrews 12:1-3</a></span><br />Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance the race set out for us. / Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. / Consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/41-10.htm">Isaiah 41:10</a></span><br />Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/34-19.htm">Psalm 34:19</a></span><br />Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him from them all.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/46-1.htm">Psalm 46:1-3</a></span><br />For the choirmaster. Of the sons of Korah. According to Alamoth. A song. God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. / Therefore we will not fear, though the earth is transformed and the mountains are toppled into the depths of the seas, / though their waters roar and foam and the mountains quake in the surge. Selah<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/43-2.htm">Isaiah 43:2</a></span><br />When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you go through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched; the flames will not set you ablaze.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/23-4.htm">Psalm 23:4</a></span><br />Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;</p><p class="hdg">troubled.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_corinthians/1-8.htm">2 Corinthians 1:8-10</a></b></br> For we would not, brethren, have you ignorant of our trouble which came to us in Asia, that we were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life: … </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_corinthians/6-4.htm">2 Corinthians 6:4</a></b></br> But in all <i>things</i> approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_corinthians/7-5.htm">2 Corinthians 7:5</a></b></br> For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without <i>were</i> fightings, within <i>were</i> fears.</p><p class="hdg">yet.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_corinthians/4-16.htm">2 Corinthians 4:16,17</a></b></br> For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward <i>man</i> is renewed day by day… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_corinthians/12-10.htm">2 Corinthians 12:10</a></b></br> Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_samuel/28-15.htm">1 Samuel 28:15</a></b></br> And Samuel said to Saul, Why hast thou disquieted me, to bring me up? And Saul answered, I am sore distressed; for the Philistines make war against me, and God is departed from me, and answereth me no more, neither by prophets, nor by dreams: therefore I have called thee, that thou mayest make known unto me what I shall do.</p><p class="hdg">not in despair.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_samuel/31-4.htm">1 Samuel 31:4</a></b></br> Then said Saul unto his armourbearer, Draw thy sword, and thrust me through therewith; lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and abuse me. But his armourbearer would not; for he was sore afraid. Therefore Saul took a sword, and fell upon it.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/job/2-9.htm">Job 2:9,10</a></b></br> Then said his wife unto him, Dost thou still retain thine integrity? curse God, and die… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/37-33.htm">Psalm 37:33</a></b></br> The LORD will not leave him in his hand, nor condemn him when he is judged.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/1_corinthians/13-2.htm">Absolute</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-6.htm">Afflicted</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-21.htm">Apparent</a> <a href="/acts/9-22.htm">Baffled</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-8.htm">Crushed</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/2-7.htm">Despair</a> <a href="/job/6-26.htm">Despairing</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/2-4.htm">Distress</a> <a href="/romans/14-15.htm">Distressed</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/2-7.htm">Driven</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-10.htm">Entirely</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-14.htm">Hard</a> <a href="/acts/15-2.htm">Issue</a> <a href="/acts/25-20.htm">Perplexed</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-8.htm">Pressed</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-5.htm">Round</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-4.htm">Shut</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/16-2.htm">Side</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/7-29.htm">Straitened</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-6.htm">Troubled</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-8.htm">Troubles</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-8.htm">Utterly</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-3.htm">Way</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/2_corinthians/7-16.htm">Absolute</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-5.htm">Afflicted</a> <a href="/matthew/6-18.htm">Apparent</a> <a href="/ezekiel/19-5.htm">Baffled</a> <a href="/revelation/14-20.htm">Crushed</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/28-65.htm">Despair</a> <a href="/job/6-14.htm">Despairing</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-4.htm">Distress</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-13.htm">Distressed</a> <a href="/james/1-6.htm">Driven</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-15.htm">Entirely</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-5.htm">Hard</a> <a href="/hebrews/13-7.htm">Issue</a> <a href="/galatians/4-20.htm">Perplexed</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-13.htm">Pressed</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-14.htm">Round</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-32.htm">Shut</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-5.htm">Side</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-12.htm">Straitened</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-5.htm">Troubled</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-17.htm">Troubles</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-15.htm">Utterly</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-13.htm">Way</a><div class="vheading2">2 Corinthians 4</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/4-1.htm">Paul declares how he has used all sincerity and diligence in preaching the gospel,</a></span><br><span class="reftext">7. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/4-7.htm">and how his troubles and persecutions did redound to the praise of God's power,</a></span><br><span class="reftext">12. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/4-12.htm">to the benefit of the church,</a></span><br><span class="reftext">16. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/4-16.htm">and to the apostle's own eternal glory.</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <script type="text/javascript"> </script> <script type="text/javascript" src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading"><a href="/study/2_corinthians/4.htm">Berean Study Bible</a></div><b>We are hard pressed on all sides</b><br />The Greek word for "hard pressed" is "θλιβόμενοι" (thlibomenoi), which conveys the idea of being under pressure or afflicted. Historically, the Apostle Paul faced numerous trials and persecutions, reflecting the early Christian experience of being surrounded by opposition. This phrase captures the reality of spiritual and physical challenges that believers encounter. Yet, it also implies resilience, as the pressure does not lead to destruction. The imagery is akin to an olive press, where pressure yields valuable oil, symbolizing how trials can produce spiritual growth and strength.<p><b>but not crushed</b><br />The term "crushed" in Greek is "στενοχωρούμενοι" (stenochoroumenoi), suggesting being confined or restricted. Despite the intense pressures, Paul emphasizes that believers are not defeated or destroyed. This reflects the Christian hope and assurance that, through Christ, one can endure hardships without being overcome. The historical context of the early church, which faced severe persecution, underscores the miraculous preservation and perseverance of the faithful, a testament to divine support and empowerment.<p><b>perplexed</b><br />The Greek word "ἀπορούμενοι" (aporoumenoi) means to be at a loss or uncertain. This acknowledges the reality of confusion and lack of understanding that believers may experience. Paul himself faced situations that were difficult to comprehend, yet he maintained faith. This phrase encourages Christians to trust in God's wisdom and sovereignty, even when circumstances are bewildering. It is a reminder that human understanding is limited, but God's plan is perfect.<p><b>but not in despair</b><br />The Greek "ἐξαπορούμενοι" (exaporoumenoi) indicates being utterly at a loss or in complete despair. Paul contrasts this with the previous term to highlight that, despite confusion, believers do not succumb to hopelessness. This reflects the Christian doctrine of hope, rooted in the resurrection of Christ and the promise of eternal life. Historically, this assurance has sustained Christians through trials, reinforcing the belief that God provides strength and clarity amidst life's uncertainties.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/2_corinthians/4.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(8) <span class= "bld">We are troubled on every side.</span>--The Greek presents all the clauses in a participial form, in apposition with the "we" with which <a href="/2_corinthians/4-7.htm" title="But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.">2Corinthians 4:7</a> opens. The careful antithesis in each case requires some modification of the English version in order to be at all adequately expressed. <span class= "ital">Hemmed-in in everything, yet not straitened for room perplexed, yet not baffled;</span> or, as it has been rendered, less literally, but with great vividness, <span class= "ital">bewildered, but not benighted.</span> The imagery in both clauses belongs to the life of the soldier on active service.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_corinthians/4.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 8.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">Troubled</span>; <span class="accented">afflicted, as</span> in <a href="/2_corinthians/1-4.htm">2 Corinthians 1:4</a>. <span class="cmt_word">On every side;</span> <span class="accented">in everything</span>. <span class="accented"><span class="cmt_word"></span>Distressed</span>; rather, <span class="accented">driven to straits</span>. <span class="accented"><span class="cmt_word"></span>Perplexed, but not in despair.</span> In the original is a beautiful paronomasia, which might, perhaps, be represented in English by "pressed, but not oppressed." Literally the words mean, <span class="accented">being at a loss, but not utterly at a loss</span>. In the special anguish of trial of which he spoke in <a href="/2_corinthians/1-8.htm">2 Corinthians 1:8</a> (comp. <a href="/2_corinthians/7-5.htm">2 Corinthians 7:5</a>), he was indeed for a time "utterly at a loss," reduced to utter despair; but in the normal conditions which he here describes he always, as it were, saw <span class="accented">some</span> outlet out of his worst perplexities. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/2_corinthians/4-8.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div><span class="word">We are pressed</span><br /><span class="grk">θλιβόμενοι</span> <span class="translit">(thlibomenoi)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Participle Middle or Passive - Nominative Masculine Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2346.htm">Strong's 2346: </a> </span><span class="str2">(a) I make narrow (strictly: by pressure); I press upon, (b) I persecute, press hard. Akin to the base of tribos; to crowd.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">on</span><br /><span class="grk">ἐν</span> <span class="translit">(en)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> </span><span class="str2">In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">all [sides],</span><br /><span class="grk">παντὶ</span> <span class="translit">(panti)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adjective - Dative Neuter Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3956.htm">Strong's 3956: </a> </span><span class="str2">All, the whole, every kind of. Including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">but</span><br /><span class="grk">ἀλλ’</span> <span class="translit">(all’)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_235.htm">Strong's 235: </a> </span><span class="str2">But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">not</span><br /><span class="grk">οὐ</span> <span class="translit">(ou)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3756.htm">Strong's 3756: </a> </span><span class="str2">No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">crushed;</span><br /><span class="grk">στενοχωρούμενοι</span> <span class="translit">(stenochōroumenoi)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Participle Middle or Passive - Nominative Masculine Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_4729.htm">Strong's 4729: </a> </span><span class="str2">From the same as stenochoria; to hem in closely, i.e. cramp.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">perplexed,</span><br /><span class="grk">ἀπορούμενοι</span> <span class="translit">(aporoumenoi)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Participle Middle - Nominative Masculine Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_639.htm">Strong's 639: </a> </span><span class="str2">From a compound of a and the base of poreuomai; to have no way out, i.e. Be at a loss.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">but</span><br /><span class="grk">ἀλλ’</span> <span class="translit">(all’)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_235.htm">Strong's 235: </a> </span><span class="str2">But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">not</span><br /><span class="grk">οὐκ</span> <span class="translit">(ouk)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3756.htm">Strong's 3756: </a> </span><span class="str2">No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">in despair;</span><br /><span class="grk">ἐξαπορούμενοι</span> <span class="translit">(exaporoumenoi)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Participle Middle or Passive - Nominative Masculine Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1820.htm">Strong's 1820: </a> </span><span class="str2">To be utterly without resource, be in despair. Middle voice from ek and aporeo; to be utterly at a loss, i.e. Despond.</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/4-8.htm">2 Corinthians 4:8 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/4-8.htm">2 Corinthians 4:8 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/2_corinthians/4-8.htm">2 Corinthians 4:8 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/4-8.htm">2 Corinthians 4:8 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/4-8.htm">2 Corinthians 4:8 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/2_corinthians/4-8.htm">2 Corinthians 4:8 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_corinthians/4-8.htm">2 Corinthians 4:8 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_corinthians/4-8.htm">2 Corinthians 4:8 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/2_corinthians/4-8.htm">2 Corinthians 4:8 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/2_corinthians/4-8.htm">2 Corinthians 4:8 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/2_corinthians/4-8.htm">NT Letters: 2 Corinthians 4:8 We are pressed on every side yet (2 Cor. 2C iiC 2Cor ii cor iicor) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_corinthians/4-7.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Corinthians 4:7"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 4:7" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_corinthians/4-9.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Corinthians 4:9"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 4:9" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>