Introduction

In Biblical studies, understanding the original Greek words of the New Testament can provide a more nuanced interpretation of the text. The Greek word ζεῦγος (zeugos) is particularly significant for its literal and metaphorical meanings. As a term that can refer to a “pair” or “yoke,” zeugos has deep connections to both agricultural and social contexts in ancient Greek culture. It appears in the New Testament to describe pairs of things, which can often symbolize unity, partnership, or burden-bearing in various theological discussions.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ζεῦγος (zeugos) [ZAY-oos]
• Etymology: Derived from the verb ζεύγνυμι (zeugnymi), meaning “to join” or “to yoke.”
• Part of Speech: Noun (neuter); it can denote a pair, couple, or yoke and follows the second declension pattern in Greek grammar.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Yoke or Pair: Refers to a pair of animals, particularly oxen, that are yoked together for plowing or pulling.
• Couple or Pair: Describes a set of two things or persons, indicating a close or functional relationship.

Similar Words: ζεύγλη (zeugle) [ZAY-oog-lay], meaning “yoke strap” or “yoke band,” specifically refers to the leather or wooden strap used in binding animals together in a yoke. While zeugos broadly denotes the concept of a pair or yoke, zeugle focuses on the actual tool or apparatus.

Further Insights: The word ζεῦγος is a neuter noun that follows the second declension pattern in Greek. Below is the declension chart for ζεῦγος:

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Describes ζεῦγος as a “pair” or “yoke,” highlighting its literal use in agriculture as well as its figurative use to denote unity or partnership. It mentions its application in the New Testament to indicate pairs, such as in the context of the animals or things being paired together.
• Thayer’s: Notes that ζεῦγος primarily means “yoke” or “pair,” emphasizing its agricultural context in ancient Greek society. The lexicon also discusses its broader metaphorical use for couples or pairs.
• Vine’s: Focuses on the term’s figurative implications in the New Testament, particularly in passages that use agricultural imagery to communicate spiritual truths, such as yoked animals symbolizing partnership in carrying a burden.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Explores the classical Greek usage of ζεῦγος, noting that it can refer to any kind of pair, from animals to items, and discusses its metaphorical uses in various Greek literature.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists ζεῦγος under Strong’s G2201 and points to its occurrences in the New Testament, particularly where it describes pairs of animals or tools that are yoked together.

Related Scripture References

• Luke 2:24: “And to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the Law of the Lord, ‘A pair [ζεῦγος] of turtledoves or two young pigeons.'”
• Luke 14:19: “Another said, ‘I have bought five yoke [ζεύγη] of oxen, and I am going to try them out; please consider me excused.'”

Classical Usage

Summary of ζεῦγος (G2201: zeugos)

The Greek word ζεῦγος (Strong’s G2201), translated as “yoke” or “pair,” is a versatile term that carries both literal and metaphorical meanings in ancient Greek and Biblical contexts. In the New Testament, it is used to describe pairs of animals or objects, often symbolizing unity, partnership, or shared burden. Its etymological roots trace back to the verb ζεύγνυμι (zeugnymi), meaning “to join” or “to yoke.” Understanding zeugos provides insights into agricultural practices, social structures, and theological metaphors in ancient Greek and early Christian culture. This term appears in various classical works, underscoring its importance in describing relationships, both physical and metaphorical.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the concept of a “yoke” (ζεῦγος) was not only a practical agricultural tool but also a powerful symbol in ancient Greek philosophy and early Christian theology? It often represented partnership, shared effort, and even submission. In the teachings of Jesus, the “yoke” is used metaphorically to describe spiritual teachings and discipleship, urging believers to take on a yoke that is “easy” and a burden that is “light.” This rich imagery links the physical tool to deeper spiritual truths about unity and cooperation!