Humble Entry: ὑποζύγιον (Strong’s G5268: hypozygion) Reveals Messiah’s Gentleness

Strong’s G5268: A compound noun joining hypo (under) with zygon (yoke), referring to a beast of burden, particularly a donkey. In biblical usage, it notably appears in prophecy fulfillment regarding the Messiah’s humble entry into Jerusalem.

U- Unveiling the Word

ὑποζύγιον (hypozygion) combines ὑπό (hypo, “under”) with ζυγόν (zygon, “yoke”), literally meaning “under the yoke.” It appears significantly in Matthew 21:5, fulfilling Zechariah’s prophecy about the Messiah’s entry into Jerusalem. The early church saw deep symbolism in this word, connecting it to themes of humility, service, and the peaceful nature of the Messiah’s kingdom. Today, it continues to remind believers that true kingship in God’s kingdom is characterized by humility and gentleness rather than worldly power.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: ὑποζύγιον, hypozygion, hoop-o-DZOO-gee-on
• Detailed Pronunciation: hoop (as in “hoop”) + o (as in “go”) + dzoo (as in “zoo”) + gee (as in “key”) + on (as in “on”)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• ὑπό (hypo) – prefix meaning “under”
• ζυγόν (zygon) – noun meaning “yoke”
• -ιον (-ion) – diminutive suffix
  Combined to mean “beast under the yoke”

D – Defining Meanings

• Beast of burden
• Pack animal
• Donkey

For compound words:

• ὑπό indicates position under
• ζυγόν contributes the concept of yoking
• -ιον makes it a concrete noun

Translation Options:

• “Beast of burden” – emphasizes function
• “Donkey” – specific animal type
• “Pack animal” – general category

E – Exploring Similar Words

• ὄνος (onos, ON-os) – “donkey” – specific animal type
  See G3688
• πῶλος (pōlos, POH-los) – “colt, young donkey”
  See G4454
• κτῆνος (ktēnos, KTAY-nos) – “beast, animal”
  See G2934

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a noun, ὑποζύγιον exhibits these features:

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

Examples of morphological changes:

• Nominative/Accusative singular: ὑποζύγιον
• Genitive singular: ὑποζυγίου
• Dative singular: ὑποζυγίῳ
• Plural forms adjust accordingly

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

The major lexicons provide rich insight into ὑποζύγιον. BDAG emphasizes its use in Messianic prophecy fulfillment. Thayer’s highlights its literal meaning and metaphorical significance. LSJ traces its development from general work animal to specific reference to donkeys. Vine’s connects it to Messianic humility. Strong’s emphasizes its compound nature suggesting submission. Moulton and Milligan document its common usage in agricultural and commercial contexts.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
Matthew 21:5: “Tell the daughter of Zion, ‘Behold, your King is coming to you, lowly, and sitting on a donkey, a colt, the foal of a [ὑποζύγιον] donkey.'”

Additional References:
2 Peter 2:16

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

ὑποζύγιον beautifully captures the humble nature of the Messiah’s kingdom. When King Jesus chose to enter Jerusalem on a donkey, He fulfilled prophecy and demonstrated that His kingdom operates differently from worldly powers. The good news is that our King comes not with military might but with gentle humility, inviting all who are weary to take His easy yoke upon them.

D – Did You Know?

• The word was used in ancient commercial contracts
• It appears in both Messianic prophecy and fulfillment
• It influenced early Christian symbolism of humility

Strong’s G5268: A compound noun joining hypo (under) with zygon (yoke), referring to a beast of burden, particularly a donkey. In biblical usage, it notably appears in prophecy fulfillment regarding the Messiah’s humble entry into Jerusalem.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: donkey, humility, prophecy fulfillment, Messiah, Jerusalem entry, service, gentleness, kingdom values, animals, transportation​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​