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Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words is crucial in Biblical studies as they often encapsulate rich meanings that illuminate the context and teachings of the Scriptures. The term ὄνος, which appears in Matthew 21:2, is particularly significant as it pertains to the donkey, an animal deeply rooted in both everyday life and religious symbolism in ancient culture. In the context of the New Testament, the donkey is prominently associated with Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, symbolizing humility and peace in contrast to a warhorse. Exploring ὄνος helps us appreciate the cultural and theological layers surrounding the narratives of Jesus’ ministry.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: ὄνος (onos)

Pronunciation Guide: OH-nos

Etymology: The word ὄνος is a noun that simply means “donkey” or “ass.” Its etymology can be traced back to a common Indo-European root related to the sound of braying, which is characteristic of the animal.

Part of Speech: Noun. As a noun, ὄνος refers specifically to the animal, indicating its role in society and culture.

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Defining Meanings

Meaning 1: Donkey. The primary meaning of ὄνος is the animal itself, which was commonly used for transportation and as a pack animal in ancient times.

Meaning 2: Ass. In this context, it refers to the domesticated version of the wild ass, which is known for its surefootedness and ability to carry burdens.

Meaning 3: Symbol of humility. In the biblical narrative, particularly in Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, the donkey symbolizes peace and humility, contrasting the warlike connotation of horses.

Exploring Similar Words

ἵππος (hippos) : This term means “horse” and is often associated with strength, power, and war. While ἵππος represents a noble steed, ὄνος signifies a humble animal, reflecting different values and societal roles.

μῶρος (mōros) : This adjective means “foolish” or “stupid.” While not directly related to the term ὄνος, it reflects the cultural perception of donkeys in some contexts, as they were sometimes viewed as stubborn or slow.

φορτίον (fortion) : This term means “burden” or “load.” While ὄνος refers to the animal that carries burdens, φορτίον emphasizes the weight being carried, reflecting the donkey’s practical role in society.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender: ὄνος is a masculine noun that can appear in various cases: nominative (ὄνος), genitive (ὄνου), dative (ὄνῳ), and accusative (ὄνον) in both singular and plural forms.

Declension: As a masculine noun, ὄνος follows the second declension pattern in Greek, which is characterized by specific endings that indicate case and number.

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Studying Lexicon Insights

The term ὄνος is used in the New Testament, particularly in Matthew 21:2, where Jesus instructs his disciples to bring a donkey for his entry into Jerusalem. This event is significant in Christian theology as it fulfills the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9, where it is foretold that the Messiah would enter Jerusalem “humble and riding on a donkey.” The act of riding a donkey instead of a horse signifies peace and humility, contrasting with the expectation of a conquering king.

Theologically, the use of the donkey in this narrative illustrates Jesus’ mission, which emphasizes servanthood and humility over political power and military might. This juxtaposition invites believers to reconsider their understanding of leadership and strength in light of Christ’s example.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

Matthew 21:2: “Saying to them, ‘Go into the village ahead of you, and there you will find a donkey [ὄνος] tied, and a colt with her. Untie them and bring them to me.’”

This verse highlights the specific instruction given by Jesus regarding the donkey for his entry into Jerusalem.

Mark 11:2: “And he said to them, ‘Go into the village ahead of you, and just as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here.’”

This passage parallels Matthew’s account, emphasizing the importance of the donkey in the narrative.

Luke 19:30: “Go to the village ahead of you; there, as you enter, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here.”

Again, this verse reinforces the significance of the donkey in Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem.

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work English Text

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

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

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

Septuagint Genesis 49:14 “Issachar is a strong donkey [ὄνος], crouching between the sheepfolds.”

Septuagint Isaiah 1:3 “The ox knows its owner, and the donkey [ὄνος] its master’s crib.”

Septuagint Job 11:12 “But a stupid man will not become wise, and an ass [ὄνος] will not understand.”

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word ὄνος plays a significant role in both biblical and classical contexts, symbolizing humility and service. Its appearance in Matthew 21:2 during Jesus’ triumphal entry highlights the contrasting values of the kingdom of God, where greatness is found in servanthood. By examining its meanings, morphology, and usages, we can appreciate the rich cultural and theological implications surrounding this seemingly simple term.

Did You Know?

• Donkeys were commonly used as pack animals in ancient cultures, symbolizing hard work and humility.

• In biblical literature, the donkey often appears alongside significant figures, such as Balaam in Numbers, emphasizing its role in divine plans.

• The phrase “ride on a donkey” is a powerful metaphor for peace and humility, contrasting with the warrior imagery associated with riding horses in ancient times.