Holy Zeal: σχοινίον (Strong’s G4979: schoinion) Reveals Messiah’s Temple Authority

Strong’s G4979: From schoinos (rush, reed), σχοινίον refers to a cord or rope made from rushes. In John’s Gospel, it appears in the Temple cleansing narrative, highlighting the Messiah’s authority to purify His Father’s house.

U- Unveiling the Word

σχοινίον represents a simple yet significant tool in the Messiah’s dramatic cleansing of the Temple. Originally referring to ropes made from rushes or reeds, it gained profound theological significance through its use in John’s account of the Temple purification. The early church saw in this humble cord a symbol of divine authority exercised in holy zeal. Today, it reminds us of both the Messiah’s authority to purify His church and His commitment to maintaining the sanctity of worship.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: σχοινίον, schoinion, /skhoy-nē’-on/
• Pronunciation Guide: “skhoy-NEE-on” (stress on second syllable)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• From σχοῖνος (schoinos) – rush, reed
• -ιον (-ion) – diminutive suffix
• Indicates material made into cord

D – Defining Meanings

• Cord made of rushes
• Small rope
• Whip of cords

Translation Options:

• “Cord” – Best captures the basic meaning
• “Small rope” – Emphasizes the diminutive aspect
• “Whip of cords” – Contextual translation in John 2

E – Exploring Similar Words

• σπαρτίον (spartion) /spär-tē’-on/ – rope – See G4682
• δεσμός (desmos) /des-mo’s/ – bond, fetter – See G1199
• σειρά (seira) /sā-rä’/ – chain – See G4577

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a noun, σχοινίον exhibits:

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

Examples:

• Nominative/Accusative: σχοινίον (cord)
• Genitive: σχοινίου (of cord)
• Dative: σχοινίῳ (to/for cord)
• Plural: σχοινία (cords)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its material composition. Thayer’s notes its common usage for small ropes. LSJ documents its use in maritime contexts. Vine’s connects it to Temple cleansing. Strong’s highlights its origin from rush plants. Moulton and Milligan note its everyday use in commerce.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
John 2:15: “So He made a whip out of [σχοινίον] cords and drove all from the temple courts, both sheep and cattle; He scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables.”

Additional References:

• Acts 27:32

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

σχοινίον shows how the Messiah uses simple means to accomplish profound purposes. This word proclaims the good news that He cares deeply about pure worship and has the authority to cleanse His Father’s house. It challenges us to maintain holy reverence in our approach to God.

D – Did You Know?

• Ancient rush ropes were known for their strength despite humble materials
• The Temple incident appears in all four Gospels, but only John mentions the cord
• Early churches used this account to establish proper worship practices

Strong’s G4979: From schoinos (rush, reed), σχοινίον refers to a cord or rope made from rushes. In John’s Gospel, it appears in the Temple cleansing narrative, highlighting the Messiah’s authority to purify His Father’s house.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: Temple cleansing, cord, holy zeal, worship purity, divine authority, John’s Gospel, Temple courts, sacred space, righteous anger, church discipline​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​