Brief Overview of πίναξ (Strong’s G4094: pinax)
Strong’s G4094: A noun meaning “platter” or “dish,” particularly a serving plate. In biblical contexts, appears notably in the account of John the Baptist’s death, where his head is presented on a platter, symbolizing the grotesque display of power and persecution of God’s prophets.
U- Unveiling the Word
Πίναξ (pinax) refers to a flat serving dish or platter, but in the New Testament it carries dark significance in the martyrdom of John the Baptist. While primarily a common household item, it becomes a symbol of tyrannical power and the persecution of God’s servants. Early church writers saw this platter as representing the world’s treatment of divine truth-tellers. Today, it reminds us how ordinary objects can become instruments in both evil and redemptive narratives.
N – Necessary Information
- Greek Word: πίναξ, pinax, pin’-ax
- Detailed pronunciation: pin (as in “pin”) + ax (as in “axe”)
- Part of Speech: Noun
Etymology:
From Proto-Indo-European *pend- meaning “to stretch, draw”
D – Defining Meanings
- Platter
- Serving dish
- Flat plate
- Tray
- Board
Translation Options:
- Platter – emphasizes serving function
- Dish – general term
- Charger – formal serving plate
E – Exploring Similar Words
- τρύβλιον (tryblion) [troob’-lee-on] – bowl, deeper vessel
- παροψίς (paropsis) [par-op-sis’] – side dish
- σκεῦος (skeuos) [skyoo’-os] – vessel, general term
R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
Noun Features:
- Case: Nominative, Accusative, Genitive, Dative
- Number: Singular, Plural
- Gender: Masculine
- Third Declension
Example forms:
Nominative singular: πίναξ
Genitive singular: πίνακος
Dative plural: πίναξι
Cross-references:
- Diminutive: πινακίδιον (small tablet)
S – Studying Lexicon Insights
BDAG emphasizes its household use. Thayer’s notes its connection to John’s martyrdom. LSJ documents various practical uses. Vine’s connects it to persecution narratives. Strong’s highlights its basic meaning. Moulton and Milligan note its common occurrence in household inventories.
T – Tracing the Scriptures
First appearance:
“Prompted by her mother, she said, ‘Give me here on a platter [πίναξ] the head of John the Baptist.'” (Matthew 14:8)
Additional References:
Mark 6:25
Mark 6:28
Luke 11:39
A – Analyzing Classical Usage
| Author: Work | Text |
|---|---|
| Homer: Odyssey | “The servant brought meat on a platter [πίναξ].” |
| Herodotus: Histories | “They presented gifts upon golden platters [πίναξ].” |
| Aristophanes: Peace | “The feast was served on wooden platters [πίναξ].” |
N – Noteworthy Summary
Πίναξ powerfully illustrates how ordinary objects can become symbols of spiritual warfare. The good news of King Jesus includes His ultimate victory over those who persecute His servants. This word reminds us that while the world may present truth on a platter of death, God transforms it into a testimony of eternal life.
D – Did You Know?
- Also used for votive offerings in temples.
- Early Christian art depicted the platter in martyrdom scenes.
- Influenced development of liturgical vessels.
Strong’s G4094: A noun denoting a flat serving dish or platter, gaining particular significance in the account of John the Baptist’s martyrdom. Represents both everyday household use and the potential for ordinary objects to become symbols in spiritual narratives.
Part of speech: Noun
Tags: #platter #JohnTheBaptist #martyrdom #persecution #Matthew #Mark #household #NewTestament #BiblicalGreek #Theology #prophets
Note: While this entry strives for accuracy, readers engaged in critical research should verify citations and keyword occurrences in their Bible translation of choice. For Biblical citations, the F.O.G Bible project recommends Logos Bible software.
