G3790

Unveiling the Word

The Greek word ὄφρυς (ophrys) translates to “brow” or “eyebrow” in English. While it has a straightforward physical meaning, referring specifically to the area above the eyes, it can also carry metaphorical implications in literature and scripture. In the context of biblical passages, such as Luke 4:29, the term appears during narratives that evoke strong emotions or judgments, often underscoring feelings of anger or defiance. The significance of this word lies not just in its anatomical reference but also in how it contributes to the broader narrative, enhancing the emotional and visual imagery within the text.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: ὄφρυς (ophrys), pronounced [OF-ruis].

Etymology: The term ὄφρυς is believed to be derived from an earlier form, possibly relating to the concept of covering or shading, akin to how eyebrows frame the eyes and provide expression. Its roots can be traced through various contexts in Greek literature.

Part of Speech: Noun; it is feminine and follows the second declension pattern in Greek.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

Primary Meaning: The primary definition of ὄφρυς is “eyebrow,” directly referring to the hair-covered area above the eyes.

Secondary Meaning: In a more poetic or metaphorical sense, it can symbolize an expression of emotion, particularly in contexts that denote anger, judgment, or condemnation, as seen in its biblical usage.

Cultural Significance: In various literary and cultural contexts, the eyebrow can symbolize scrutiny or vigilance, reflecting a character’s attentiveness or concern.

Exploring Similar Words

μετώπον (metopon) [meh-TOH-pon]: Meaning “forehead,” this term differs from ὄφρυς by referring to a larger area on the face and does not carry the same specific connotation related to emotional expression.

οφθαλμός (ophthalmos) [of-THAL-mohs]: Translated as “eye,” this word relates to vision and perception, highlighting the contrast between seeing and the framing role that eyebrows play in expressions.

χειρ (cheir) [KHEIR]: Meaning “hand,” this word is unrelated in anatomical focus but is often associated with action and expression, serving to contrast the more static nature of the brow.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Nouns:

• Case, Number, Gender: ὄφρυς is in the nominative case, singular number, and feminine gender.

• Declension: It follows the second declension pattern, typical for feminine nouns, which involves specific endings for different grammatical cases.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The term ὄφρυς is not commonly referenced outside of specific biblical contexts but offers insights into emotional expressions in the New Testament. Lexicons highlight how this term contributes to the depiction of characters’ emotional states, particularly in moments of confrontation or tension. The brow’s imagery enhances the storytelling by providing a visual cue to the audience about the internal states of characters. This term’s multifaceted meanings illustrate its role in both physical description and emotional expression, enhancing the richness of biblical narratives.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

Luke 4:29: “And they rose up and drove him out of the town and brought him to the brow [ὄφρυς] of the hill on which their town was built, so that they could throw him down the cliff.”

Matthew 27:30: “And they spit on him and took the reed and struck him on the head.”

John 18:22: “When he had said these things, one of the officers standing by struck Jesus with his hand, saying, ‘Is that how you answer the high priest?’”

Analyzing Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature, ὄφρυς often appears in contexts that emphasize emotional expressions or physical descriptions.

Example 1: Homer, The Iliad: “With brows [ὄφρυς] knit in fury, he confronted his enemy, eyes ablaze with the fire of battle.”

Example 2: Plato, Phaedrus: “His brow [ὄφρυς] shaded his eyes, creating an aura of mystery that intrigued his audience.”

Example 3: Euripides, Medea: “With a fierce look and brow [ὄφρυς] drawn tight, she plotted her revenge.”

Septuagint Example 1: Exodus 34:29: “When Moses came down from Mount Sinai, with the two tablets of the covenant in his hand, Moses did not know that the skin of his face shone because he had been talking with God.”

Septuagint Example 2: Proverbs 25:8: “Do not hastily bring into court, for what will you do in the end when your neighbor puts you to shame before [ὄφρυς]?”

Septuagint Example 3: Isaiah 3:17: “Therefore the Lord will strike with a scab the heads of the daughters of Zion, and the Lord will lay bare their foreheads [ὄφρυς].”

Noteworthy Summary

The term ὄφρυς serves as a key element in understanding emotional expressions in biblical and classical literature. It underscores the significance of physical features in conveying deeper meanings, particularly in moments of tension and emotion.

Did You Know?

1. Eyebrows play a critical role in nonverbal communication, helping to convey emotions like surprise, anger, and joy.

2. In some cultures, the shape and thickness of eyebrows are considered significant to beauty and character.

3. The phrase “to raise one’s eyebrows” is often used idiomatically to indicate surprise or skepticism.

Strong’s G3790: ὄφρυς (ophrys) signifies “brow” or “eyebrow,” highlighting its significance as a symbol of emotion and expression in biblical contexts.