from βάλλω; a throw (as a measure of distance):--cast.
Transliteration:bolḗ
Pronunciation:bol-ay'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun βολή (G1000), transliterated as *bolḗ*, originates from the verb βάλλω (`{{G906}}`), which means "to throw, cast, or put." While the root verb has a broad semantic range, *bolḗ* specifically denotes the act of throwing or casting, and more precisely, the *distance* covered by such a throw. Its primary meaning, as indicated by its base definition, is "a throw (as a measure of distance)." This implies a practical, often approximate, unit of spatial measurement. The English translation "cast" accurately conveys this sense of projection or the resulting span. Thus, *bolḗ* is not concerned with the object being thrown, but rather the action of projection and the resultant spatial separation or extent.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word *bolḗ* (G1000) appears only once in the entire New Testament, making its singular occurrence particularly significant.
* **Luke 22:41**: "And he was withdrawn from them about a stone's cast, and kneeled down, and prayed."
* In this sole instance, the phrase "about a stone's cast" (ὡς λίθου βολήν, *hōs lithou bolēn*) functions as a vivid, idiomatic measure of distance. It describes Jesus' physical separation from his disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane.
* The context is crucial: Jesus is about to face the deepest agony of his passion, and he intentionally withdraws from his disciples to pray. The "stone's cast" indicates a relatively short, yet distinct, distance – close enough for them to be witnesses if they had remained vigilant, but far enough for Him to seek solitude for intimate communion with the Father. It underscores Jesus' desire for a private space to wrestle with the impending suffering and divine will.
* This measurement, while not precise in a modern scientific sense, was a commonly understood approximation in the ancient world, conveying a tangible sense of proximity and separation.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **βάλλω (`{{G906}}`):** As the root verb, *ballō* is intrinsically linked to *bolḗ*. Understanding the broader applications of *ballō*—from casting nets ([[Matthew 4:18]]) to casting out demons ([[Matthew 9:34]]) or casting lots ([[Matthew 27:35]])—helps to define the specific nuance of *bolḗ* as the *result* or *distance* of a throw. While *ballō* can be used figuratively, *bolḗ* in its single occurrence remains literal.
* **Distance and Proximity:** *Bolḗ* relates directly to spatial relationships. In [[Luke 22:41]], it defines the physical boundary between Jesus and his disciples. This concept of measurable distance is vital for understanding the scene's dynamic, highlighting both Jesus' need for solitude and the disciples' relative remove from the intensity of his spiritual struggle.
* **Idiomatic Expressions:** The phrase "a stone's cast" is an ancient idiom for a short, easily understood distance, similar to modern phrases like "a stone's throw away." This demonstrates how common activities (like throwing a stone) were used to quantify space in a relatable manner.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of *bolḗ* in [[Luke 22:41]] is pregnant with theological meaning due to its pivotal context in Gethsemane.
* **Jesus' Solitude in Suffering:** The "stone's cast" vividly portrays Jesus' deliberate withdrawal from human companionship to face his deepest agony alone with God. This physical separation underscores the unique and unparalleled burden He was about to bear for humanity. His prayer in Gethsemane was an intensely personal and agonizing struggle, requiring a space removed from even His closest disciples.
* **The Nature of Intercession and Submission:** The distance highlights the profound intimacy and earnestness of Jesus' prayer. He was not merely praying *in front of* His disciples, but withdrawing to a private space to pour out His soul to the Father, demonstrating perfect submission to the divine will, even unto death.
* **Disciples' Limitations and Jesus' Perseverance:** The "stone's cast" also subtly emphasizes the disciples' inability to fully comprehend or participate in the depth of Jesus' suffering. They were physically and spiritually "a stone's cast" away from the full weight of His passion. Despite their failure to stay awake and pray with Him, Jesus persevered in His solitary intercession.
* **Luke's Meticulous Detail:** Luke, often characterized by his attention to detail, includes this specific measurement, adding a tangible and realistic quality to his account of Gethsemane. It enhances the emotional impact of the scene, allowing the reader to visualize the precise setting of Jesus' profound struggle.
### Summary
The Greek word *bolḗ* (G1000), derived from *ballō* (`{{G906}}`), primarily signifies "a throw as a measure of distance." Its sole New Testament appearance in [[Luke 22:41]] describes Jesus withdrawing from his disciples "about a stone's cast" in Gethsemane. This seemingly simple spatial descriptor carries profound theological weight. It emphasizes Jesus' deliberate solitude for intense prayer, highlighting the unique and agonizing burden He was preparing to bear for humanity. The "stone's cast" underscores the intimacy of His communion with the Father, His perfect submission to divine will, and the disciples' inability to fully grasp the depth of His suffering. Luke's inclusion of this specific, idiomatic measurement adds a vivid, realistic detail to the narrative, enriching our understanding of the pivotal events in the Garden of Gethsemane.
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