Unveiling the Word
Understanding Greek words in biblical studies is essential for grasping the full meaning and context of scripture. The Greek word κτῆνος (ktēnos), found in Luke 10:34, is particularly significant as it sheds light on the practices and daily life of people in the New Testament era. This word, which refers to a “beast of burden” or a “domestic animal,” plays an important role in New Testament interpretation by emphasizing themes of compassion, service, and the practical aspects of life in ancient cultures.
Necessary Information
Greek Word: κτῆνος (ktēnos) [KTAY-nos]
Etymology: The word κτῆνος is derived from the same root as κτάομαι (ktaomai), which means “to acquire” or “to possess.” The term relates to property or possessions, particularly livestock or animals that are owned for work or transport.
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Part of Speech: Noun. κτῆνος is a neuter noun belonging to the third declension in Greek grammar. It is used in various cases to denote a type of animal used for carrying loads or performing labor, such as a horse, mule, or donkey.
The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Defining Meanings
Meaning 1: Beast of Burden
The primary meaning of κτῆνος is “beast of burden.” This refers to any animal used for carrying heavy loads or performing work, which was a common practice in both urban and rural settings in ancient times.
Meaning 2: Domestic Animal
Another usage of κτῆνος is as a general term for a “domestic animal,” which might include livestock like oxen, sheep, or goats that were part of a household’s or estate’s assets.
Exploring Similar Words
ζῷον (zōon) [ZO-on]: While ζῷον also refers to “living beings” or “animals,” it is a broader term that includes all forms of life, not specifically focusing on those used for labor or transport as κτῆνος does.
ὑποζύγιον (hypozygion) [hoo-poz-OO-gee-on]: This word, meaning “pack animal” or “beast of burden,” is closer in meaning to κτῆνος, but it often emphasizes the animal’s use in transportation rather than ownership.
ἵππος (hippos) [HIP-pos]: Specifically meaning “horse,” ἵππος is a more specialized term than κτῆνος, which can refer to various animals, not just horses.
Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
Case, Number, Gender: κτῆνος is a neuter noun in Greek. It appears in different cases to indicate its grammatical role in sentences, whether as the subject, object, or in possession.
| Case | Singular | Plural |
|---|---|---|
| Nominative | κτῆνος (ktēnos) | κτήνη (ktēnē) |
| Genitive | κτήνους (ktēnous) | κτηνῶν (ktēnōn) |
| Dative | κτήνει (ktēnei) | κτήνεσι(ν) (ktēnesin) |
| Accusative | κτῆνος (ktēnos) | κτήνη (ktēnē) |
For further details on Greek grammar, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.
Studying Lexicon Insights
The word κτῆνος is frequently used to depict animals that were vital to the daily lives of people in the ancient world, particularly in contexts of travel, labor, and commerce. In Luke 10:34, κτῆνος is mentioned in the parable of the Good Samaritan, where the Samaritan places the injured man on his own κτῆνος (likely a donkey or mule) and brings him to an inn to care for him. This usage underscores themes of compassion, service, and the practical realities of ancient life where beasts of burden were essential for transport and labor. Classical Greek literature often uses κτῆνος to refer to animals in economic and agricultural contexts, reflecting its importance in both secular and religious texts of the time.
This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.
Tracing Related Scriptures
Luke 10:34: “And went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal (κτῆνος) and brought him to an inn, and took care of him.” Here, κτῆνος is used to describe the animal that carries the wounded man.
Acts 23:24: “Provide mounts (κτῆνη) for Paul to ride, and bring him safely to Felix the governor.” In this verse, the plural form of κτῆνος is used to refer to mounts or animals prepared for transportation.
Analyzing Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text with Greek Word |
|---|---|---|
| Homer | Iliad | “They yoked the horses and mules (κτῆνη) to the carts.” |
| Herodotus | Histories | “They traveled on beasts (κτῆνη) of burden.” |
| Septuagint | Exodus 13:12 | “All the firstborn of your livestock (κτῆνη) shall be set apart.” |
Noteworthy Summary
The word κτῆνος (ktēnos) provides a valuable glimpse into the lives of ancient peoples, both in biblical times and classical Greek culture. It signifies the importance of animals in daily life, whether for transport, labor, or economic value. In biblical texts, it often serves as a narrative tool to express themes of compassion, service, and the necessity of practical care.
Did You Know?
- Did you know? In ancient Greece, κτῆνος was not limited to one type of animal but was a general term for any beast of burden used in travel or agriculture.
- Did you know? The Good Samaritan’s use of his κτῆνος in Luke 10:34 symbolizes not only practical help but also sacrificial compassion.
- Did you know? In the Septuagint, κτῆνος is frequently used to describe livestock set apart for specific religious purposes, highlighting its broader semantic range.
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