This word answers to two different terms in the original, the one signifying a breach of the law, Romans 5:15,17, the other a stumbling-block or cause of sin to others, Matthew 5:29; 18:6-9; or whatever is perverted into an occasion or excuse for sin, Matthew 15:12; John 6:61; Romans 9:33; Galatians 5:11.

An injury or wrong done to one (1 Samuel 25:31; Romans 5:15).

A stumbling-block or cause of temptation (Isaiah 8:14; Matthew 16:23; 18:7). Greek skandalon, properly that at which one stumbles or takes offence. The "offence of the cross" (Galatians 5:11) is the offence the Jews took at the teaching that salvation was by the crucified One, and by him alone. Salvation by the cross was a stumbling-block to their national pride.