Pigs and Pearls: χοῖρος (Strong’s G5519: choiros) in Biblical Wisdom

Strong’s G5519: A swine or pig, particularly domesticated. In Biblical context, this word carries cultural and ceremonial significance, especially regarding Jewish dietary laws and ritual cleanliness. Used metaphorically to represent those who desecrate holy things or reject spiritual truth.

U- Unveiling the Word

The Greek word χοῖρος (choiros) represents more than just a common farm animal in Biblical context. It carries deep ceremonial and cultural significance, particularly within Jewish society where pigs were considered unclean animals. In the New Testament, this word appears in contexts that challenge religious boundaries and illustrate spiritual principles. The Messiah uses this term in His teachings to emphasize the importance of discerning spiritual receptivity and protecting sacred truths. Early church fathers often referenced χοῖρος when discussing matters of spiritual discernment and the proper stewardship of divine revelation. Today, this word continues to remind us of the importance of wisdom in sharing spiritual truths.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: χοῖρος, choiros, /ˈkhoiros/
• Detailed pronunciation: khoy’-ros (with a guttural ‘kh’ sound)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• Root word: χοῖρος (choiros)
• No prefixes or suffixes
• Derived from Proto-Indo-European *ghoi-ro

D – Defining Meanings

• Primary meaning: A pig or swine, specifically domesticated
• Used literally for the animal itself
• Used metaphorically for those who reject or desecrate sacred things

For compound words:
Not applicable as χοῖρος is a simple noun

Translation Options:

• Pig – Most common and straightforward translation
• Swine – More formal, often used in religious contexts
• Hog – Less common but accurately represents the domesticated nature

E – Exploring Similar Words

• ὗς (hus, /hoos/) – A more general term for swine or pig See G5300
• δέλφαξ (delphax, /del-faks/) – Specifically referring to a young pig or piglet
• σῦς (sus, /soos/) – Another term for swine, less common in Biblical Greek

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Noun Features:

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

Example morphological forms:

• Nominative singular: χοῖρος
• Genitive singular: χοίρου
• Accusative plural: χοίρους

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

The major lexicons provide rich insights into χοῖρος. BDAG emphasizes its use in both literal and metaphorical contexts, particularly noting its significance in Jewish cultural settings. Thayer’s lexicon highlights its connection to ceremonial uncleanness in Jewish law. LSJ provides evidence of its usage in classical Greek literature, showing its common application to domesticated pigs. Vine’s expands on its metaphorical usage in Matthew 7:6, where it represents those who are spiritually unreceptive. Moulton and Milligan’s papyri findings demonstrate its regular use in everyday Koine Greek for commercial and agricultural purposes.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before [χοῖρος] pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you.” Matthew 7:6

Additional References:
Matthew 8:30
Matthew 8:31
Matthew 8:32
Mark 5:11
Mark 5:12
Mark 5:13
Luke 8:32
Luke 8:33
Luke 15:15
Luke 15:16

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

The word χοῖρος serves as a powerful reminder of spiritual discernment in the New Testament. Its use in Matthew 7:6 teaches us about the wisdom needed in sharing the Gospel. The good news of King Jesus is precious, and while we’re called to share it widely, we must also be wise in how we present it. This doesn’t mean withholding the Gospel, but rather presenting it with wisdom and discernment, recognizing that some hearts may not yet be prepared to receive it.

D – Did You Know?

• In ancient Greek comedy, χοῖρος was sometimes used as a double entendre
• The word appears in all three Synoptic Gospels but never in John’s Gospel
• Archaeological evidence shows pig farming was common in Greco-Roman cities but avoided in Jewish settlements

Strong’s G5519: A swine or pig, particularly domesticated. In Biblical context, this word carries cultural and ceremonial significance, especially regarding Jewish dietary laws and ritual cleanliness. Used metaphorically to represent those who desecrate holy things or reject spiritual truth.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: animals, unclean, metaphor, wisdom, discernment, pearls, teaching, Jewish culture, dietary laws, Gospel sharing​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​