Brief Overview of γόνυ (G1119: Gony)

Transliteration and Meaning:
The Greek word γόνυ (transliterated as Gony and pronounced as “GOH-noo”) refers to the knee or the joint of the leg. This word is derived from a root in the Greek language that relates directly to the physical body, specifically the leg. In its primary meaning, γόνυ denotes the knee, which is essential for the body’s ability to kneel, bend, or stand. This term is significant in both literal and metaphorical contexts within the biblical text, often associated with acts of worship, submission, and humility.

Lexical Insights and Biblical Usage:
According to BDAG, γόνυ is straightforwardly defined as the knee, used both literally and metaphorically in the New Testament. Thayer’s Lexicon similarly confirms this meaning, emphasizing its use in the context of kneeling, which is an expression of reverence, prayer, or supplication. Vines and LSJ agree on the physicality of the term, highlighting its usage in relation to acts of kneeling or bowing down.

In the New Testament, γόνυ is used in several key passages. For example, in Philippians 2:10, it is written, “that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth.” Here, γόνυ symbolizes submission and recognition of Christ’s lordship. Similarly, in Romans 14:11, the act of every knee bowing is again associated with acknowledging God’s sovereignty. Other instances include Ephesians 3:14, where Paul writes, “For this reason, I bow my knees before the Father,” further demonstrating the word’s connection to prayer and devotion.

Usage in Classical Greek Literature:
In classical Greek literature, γόνυ also holds its primary meaning related to the physical knee. It appears in various contexts, often in descriptions of physical actions or conditions. For example, in the works of Homer, γόνυ is used in epic poetry to describe warriors in battle, often in phrases indicating the bending or kneeling of knees, which could signify either an act of submission or the moment before death. Similarly, in the plays of Sophocles and Aeschylus, γόνυ is used in scenes where characters kneel in supplication or despair. These usages in classical texts align with the term’s literal meaning and emphasize its symbolic associations with submission, humility, and vulnerability.

Summary:
The word γόνυ (G1119), transliterated as Gony, is a Greek term meaning “knee,” significant both in physical and metaphorical contexts. It appears in the New Testament to denote acts of kneeling as expressions of worship, submission, and reverence, particularly in relation to God and Christ. Lexicons like BDAG, Thayer’s, and Vines confirm its primary meaning and its usage in key biblical passages such as Philippians 2:10 and Romans 14:11. In classical Greek literature, γόνυ is consistently used to describe the knee in contexts that often symbolize submission or a critical moment of action or emotion. As such, the term carries both literal and symbolic weight, emphasizing the posture of humility and reverence in both human and divine relationships.