Strong’s G4166: A noun meaning “shepherd,” used both literally for one who tends sheep and metaphorically for spiritual leaders. Most significantly applied to Jesus as the Good Shepherd who cares for, guides, and protects His flock. The term embodies comprehensive care, protection, guidance, and leadership.

U- Unveiling the Word

Ποιμήν represents both literal shepherds and spiritual leaders in the New Testament. Its richest theological significance appears in Jesus’ self-designation as the Good Shepherd and in describing church leaders’ responsibilities. The early church saw this term as central to understanding both Christ’s relationship with His people and pastoral ministry. The metaphor powerfully conveys intimate care, sacrificial protection, and wise guidance. Today, it continues to shape our understanding of spiritual leadership and Christ’s caring relationship with His church.

N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: ποιμήν, poimēn, /poy-mane’/
• Detailed Pronunciation: p (plosive) + oy (diphthong) + mane (final syllable)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• Root: ποι- (poi-) primitive root
• Suffix: -μήν (-mēn) agent noun suffix
• Function: Creates a noun indicating one who tends/cares for others

D – Defining Meanings

• Shepherd
• Pastor
• Guardian
• Caretaker
• Leader of people

Translation Options:

• Shepherd – Best captures both literal and metaphorical meanings
• Pastor – Emphasizes spiritual leadership role
• Guardian – Highlights protective aspect

E – Exploring Similar Words

• βοσκός (boskos) /bos-kos’/ – refers specifically to a feeder – See G1016
• ἐπίσκοπος (episkopos) /ep-is’-kop-os/ – refers to an overseer – See G1985
• διδάσκαλος (didaskalos) /did-as’-kal-os/ – refers to a teacher – See G1320

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Gender: Masculine
• Declension: 3rd declension

Examples:
Singular:

• Nominative: ποιμήν
• Genitive: ποιμένος
• Dative: ποιμένι
• Accusative: ποιμένα

Cross-references:

• Related verb: ποιμαίνω (to shepherd)
• Related adjective: ποιμενικός (pastoral)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes both literal and metaphorical shepherding roles. Thayer’s highlights the comprehensive care aspect. LSJ traces its usage in classical literature. Vine’s focuses on its application to Christ and church leaders. Strong’s connects it to guardianship. LEH discusses its rich Old Testament background. Moulton and Milligan document its everyday usage.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First Appearance:
Matthew 9:36: “When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd [ποιμένα].”

Additional References:
Matthew 25:32, Mark 6:34, John 10:11, John 10:14, Ephesians 4:11, Hebrews 13:20, 1 Peter 2:25

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Ποιμήν beautifully illustrates Christ’s loving care for His people and sets the pattern for spiritual leadership. It proclaims the good news that in Jesus, we have the perfect Shepherd who laid down His life for His sheep and continues to guide, protect, and nurture His people.

D – Did You Know?

1. Ποιμήν appears 18 times in the New Testament
2. It’s one of five ministry gifts listed in Ephesians 4:11
3. The term influenced the development of pastoral theology throughout church history

Strong’s G4166: A noun meaning “shepherd,” used both literally for one who tends sheep and metaphorically for spiritual leaders. Most significantly applied to Jesus as the Good Shepherd who cares for, guides, and protects His flock. The term embodies comprehensive care, protection, guidance, and leadership.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: shepherd, pastor, spiritual leadership, Christ’s care, church leadership, pastoral ministry, Good Shepherd, spiritual oversight, Biblical Greek, New Testament terminology, church governance, pastoral care​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​