Brief Overview of πῶλος (Strong’s G4454: pōlos)

Strong’s G4454: A noun referring to a young animal, particularly a colt or young donkey. In New Testament usage, specifically significant in Jesus’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem, fulfilling Zechariah’s prophecy. Symbolizes both humility and royal authority in messianic context.

U- Unveiling the Word

πῶλος represents more than just a young animal; in New Testament context, it carries profound messianic significance. While the term can refer to any young animal, it specifically describes the unridden colt Jesus chose for His triumphal entry into Jerusalem. This choice fulfilled Zechariah’s prophecy and demonstrated the unique nature of Christ’s kingship – both humble and authoritative. Early church fathers saw in this word a perfect symbol of Christ’s dual nature: divine authority expressed through humility. Today, this word continues to remind us of how Jesus redefined kingship through servanthood.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πῶλος, pōlos, /ˈpolos/
• Pronunciation Guide: “POH-los” (stress on first syllable)
• Part of Speech: Noun (masculine)

Etymology:

• Root: πωλ- (pōl-) Indo-European root referring to young animals
• Suffix: -ος (-os) – common masculine noun ending
• Related to Latin “pullus” meaning young animal

D – Defining Meanings

• Young donkey
• Colt
• Foal
• Young horse
• Young animal (generally)

Translation Options:

• Colt – Best captures both age and type
• Young donkey – More specific translation
• Foal – Emphasizes youth aspect

E – Exploring Similar Words

• ὄνος (onos) /ˈonos/ – mature donkey – See G3688
• ὑποζύγιον (hupozugion) /hypoˈdzygion/ – beast of burden – See G5268
• κτῆνος (ktēnos) /ˈktenos/ – domestic animal – See G2934

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Morphological Features (Noun):

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Gender: Masculine
• Declension: Second

Examples:

• Nominative: πῶλος (colt)
• Genitive: πώλου (of a colt)
• Dative: πώλῳ (to/for a colt)
• Accusative: πῶλον (colt as object)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its messianic significance in Gospel accounts. Thayer’s notes its general reference to young animals. LSJ provides examples of various uses for young animals. Vine’s highlights its prophetic fulfillment. Strong’s connects it to royal symbolism. LEH traces its Septuagint usage in prophecies. Moulton and Milligan show its common usage for young domesticated animals.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First Appearance:
“Saying to them, ‘Go into the village ahead of you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a [πῶλον] colt with her.'” Matthew 21:2

Additional References:
Mark 11:2, Mark 11:4, Mark 11:5, Mark 11:7, Luke 19:30, Luke 19:33, John 12:15

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

πῶλος powerfully illustrates how Jesus fulfilled prophecy while redefining kingship. The unridden colt He chose for entering Jerusalem proclaimed His authority while demonstrating His humility. This word proclaims the good news by showing how Christ’s kingship differs from worldly power – He comes not on a warhorse but on a humble colt, bringing peace and salvation rather than military conquest.

D – Did You Know?

1. The term was often used in ancient royal processions, making Jesus’s choice particularly significant.
2. In some ancient cultures, riding an unbroken colt demonstrated supernatural authority.
3. The word influenced early Christian art, where Jesus’s entry into Jerusalem became a major iconographic theme.

Strong’s G4454: A young animal, specifically a colt or young donkey in New Testament usage. Carries significant messianic symbolism in Jesus’s triumphal entry, representing both royal authority and humility. Fulfills Zechariah’s prophecy about the coming King.

Part of speech: Noun (masculine)

Tags: colt, donkey, triumphal entry, messianic prophecy, Jerusalem, humility, kingship, animal, youth, royal entry, prophecy fulfillment, Palm Sunday​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​