Brief Overview of πρόβατον (Strong’s G4263: probaton)

Strong’s G4263: A neuter noun meaning “sheep,” used frequently in the New Testament both literally and metaphorically. First appearing in Jesus’ warning about wolves in sheep’s clothing, it carries rich theological significance, representing vulnerability, authenticity, and divine protection in biblical imagery.

U- Unveiling the Word

πρόβατον represents one of Scripture’s most significant metaphorical images. While literally denoting sheep, its theological significance spans from vulnerability to divine protection. First appearing in Matthew 7:15 in Jesus’ warning about false prophets, it highlights the contrast between genuine and counterfeit spirituality. The early church developed this imagery extensively, seeing in it both the need for discernment and Christ’s protective care. Today, this word continues to shape our understanding of spiritual authenticity and divine protection.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πρόβατον, probaton, PRO-ba-ton
• Detailed Pronunciation: PRO (stressed) + ba (as in ‘father’) + ton (as in ‘tone’)
• Part of Speech: Neuter Noun

Etymology:

• From προβαίνω (probainō) meaning “to go forward”
• Originally referring to livestock that “walks forward” while grazing
• Developed specific meaning for sheep in biblical usage

D – Defining Meanings

• Sheep
• Small livestock
• Member of a flock
• One under pastoral care

For compound words:
Not a compound word, though derived from προβαίνω

Translation Options:

1. Sheep – Most common and accurate in most contexts
2. Flock member – When emphasizing belonging
3. Small cattle – In broader agricultural contexts

E – Exploring Similar Words

• ἀρνίον (arnion) [ar-NEE-on] – lamb, more specific
• ποίμνη (poimnē) [POYM-nay] – flock, collective term
• See G4263

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a neuter noun:

• Case: Various forms
• Nominative: πρόβατον
• Genitive: προβάτου
• Dative: προβάτῳ
• Accusative: πρόβατον
• Number: Singular and Plural
• Gender: Neuter
• Declension: Second declension

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes both literal and metaphorical uses. Thayer’s notes its prominence in warnings against false teachers. LSJ documents its development from general livestock to specific sheep meaning. Vine’s highlights its use in Christ’s teachings about spiritual danger. Moulton and Milligan show its common usage in agricultural documents.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in [πρόβατον] sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.” Matthew 7:15

Additional References:
Matthew 9:36, Matthew 10:6, Matthew 10:16, John 10:1-16, Matthew 12:11-12

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

πρόβατον beautifully illustrates both vulnerability and divine protection. It proclaims the good news that while King Jesus warns us about spiritual dangers, He also promises to be our Good Shepherd. This word reminds us of our need for both discernment and dependence on divine protection.

D – Did You Know?

1. The metaphor of wolves in sheep’s clothing became proverbial from this first New Testament usage.
2. Early Christian art used sheep imagery to identify authentic believers.
3. The word influenced development of pastoral protection terminology.

Strong’s G4263: A neuter noun meaning “sheep,” used frequently in the New Testament both literally and metaphorically. First appearing in Jesus’ warning about wolves in sheep’s clothing, it carries rich theological significance, representing vulnerability, authenticity, and divine protection in biblical imagery.

Part of speech: Neuter Noun

Tags: sheep, discernment, false prophets, protection, vulnerability, Jesus’ teachings, divine care, spiritual warfare, pastoral ministry, biblical imagery, biblical keywords​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​