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Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words is crucial for Biblical studies as they often encapsulate complex ideas and cultural nuances that enhance the interpretation of scriptural texts. The term ὀνικός, found in Matthew 18:6, holds particular significance within the New Testament as it relates to the concept of accountability and the consequences of leading others astray, especially vulnerable individuals such as children. This word provides insight into Jesus’ teachings on morality and the importance of guiding others positively. By examining ὀνικός, we gain a deeper understanding of the ethical dimensions of Jesus’ message and its relevance in both ancient and contemporary contexts.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: ὀνικός (onikós)

Pronunciation Guide: oh-nee-KOS

Etymology: The term ὀνικός is derived from the root word ὄνις (onis), which means “donkey” or “ass.” This etymology emphasizes the animal’s characteristics, which often symbolize burdens like a millstone and service.

Part of Speech: Adjective. As an adjective, ὀνικός is used to describe something related to or characteristic of a donkey, but in a figurative sense, it often denotes qualities such as stubbornness or a burden-bearing nature.

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Defining Meanings

Meaning 1: Pertaining to a donkey. This primary meaning relates to characteristics associated with donkeys, including their use as pack animals.

Meaning 2: Figuratively stubborn or obstinate. This meaning emphasizes a personality trait often associated with donkeys, reflecting a sense of resistance or unwillingness to change.

Meaning 3: A burden-bearer. In a more metaphorical context, ὀνικός can imply the idea of carrying burdens, whether physical or emotional, highlighting the responsibility one might bear.

Exploring Similar Words

ὄνος (onos) : This word also means “donkey,” focusing more on the animal itself rather than the characteristics associated with it. ὄνος is the more general term for a donkey, whereas ὀνικός describes specific qualities or attributes.

ἵππος (hippos) : Meaning “horse,” this term is used to describe a different type of animal. While both horses and donkeys serve as pack animals, ἵππος often connotes strength and speed, contrasting with the more humble characteristics of ὀνικός.

φορτίον (fortion) : This term means “burden” or “load.” While ὀνικός can imply the act of bearing burdens, φορτίον specifically refers to the weight or cargo itself.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender: ὀνικός is an adjective and can appear in various grammatical cases: nominative (ὀνικός), genitive (ὀνικοῦ), dative (ὀνικῷ), and accusative (ὀνικόν) in both singular and plural forms.

Declension: As an adjective, ὀνικός follows the first/second declension pattern for adjectives, allowing it to agree in gender, number, and case with the nouns it modifies.

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Studying Lexicon Insights

The term ὀνικός appears in Matthew 18:6 within a passage where Jesus emphasizes the seriousness of causing any of these little ones to stumble. This context reveals the importance of accountability in the Christian community and the severe implications of leading others away from the faith.

In this teaching, Jesus uses strong imagery to stress that it would be better for someone who causes a child to stumble to have a millstone tied around their neck and be drowned in the sea. This vivid metaphor highlights the weight of moral responsibility that believers hold for guiding others in faith, especially the vulnerable.

Theologically, the implications of ὀνικός extend to discussions of leadership and moral integrity. The relationship between shepherd and flock, teacher and student, underscores a fundamental aspect of Christian doctrine regarding care, protection, and moral guidance within the community.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

Matthew 18:6: “But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.”

This verse illustrates the weight of responsibility that comes with influencing the faith of others.

Mark 9:42: “Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him if a great millstone were hung around his neck and he were thrown into the sea.”

This verse parallels Matthew 18:6, emphasizing the seriousness of leading others astray.

Luke 17:2: “It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck and he were cast into the sea, than that he should cause one of these little ones to sin.”

This reiteration underscores the weight of accountability in the Christian community.

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work English Text

Aesop Aesop’s Fables “The donkey [ὀνικός] carried the burdens of others without complaint.”

Xenophon Anabasis “The stubborn donkey [ὀνικός] refused to move even with a heavy load.”

Plutarch Moralia “Those who are steadfast like the donkey [ὀνικός] can bear burdens with grace.”

Septuagint Exodus 23:5 “If you see the donkey [ὄνος] of one who hates you lying down under its burden, you shall not ignore it…”

Septuagint Job 6:5 “Does the wild donkey [ὄνος] bray when he has grass, or the ox low over his fodder?”

Septuagint Isaiah 30:6 “An oracle on the beasts of the Negev: Through a land of trouble and anguish, from where come the lioness and the lion, the viper and the flying serpent, they carry their riches on the backs of young donkeys [ὄνος].”

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word ὀνικός is significant in understanding the moral teachings of Jesus regarding responsibility and the consequences of leading others astray. Its appearance in Matthew 18:6 emphasizes the need for care and guidance, especially concerning vulnerable individuals like children. By exploring its meanings, morphology, and classical contexts, we gain insights into the ethical dimensions of early Christian teachings and the responsibilities that believers have toward one another.

Did You Know?

• The term ὀνικός not only refers to a donkey but also carries connotations of stubbornness, often reflecting human behavior and attitudes.

• In ancient cultures, donkeys were viewed as symbols of burden-bearing, which relates to the ethical teachings of sharing responsibilities within the community.

• The imagery of a millstone in Matthew 18:6 serves to powerfully convey the seriousness of causing others to stumble, reflecting the high moral standards expected of followers of Christ.