The Greek word boûs, represented by G1016, refers to an ox. It appears 8 times across 7 unique verses in the Bible. This term denotes the common farm animal used for labor and commerce. While its use is not extensive, G1016 plays a significant role in several key teachings, illustrating principles of justice, mercy, and the sanctity of worship.
In the biblical narrative, G1016 is used in both everyday and theological contexts. It is mentioned as an animal for sale in the temple courts, alongside sheep G4263 and doves G4058 John 2:14. Jesus drove these oxen out of the temple when he cleansed it John 2:15. In an excuse given for not attending a great supper, a man claims he has just bought G59 five yoke of oxen Luke 14:19. The word is also central to Jesus's arguments about the Sabbath, where he points out that anyone would loose G3089 their ox from its stall G5336 for watering Luke 13:15 or pull it from a pit G5421 Luke 14:5, even on a holy day.
Several related words clarify the context and use of G1016:
- G248 aloáō (to tread out grain): This verb describes the specific work of the ox referenced by Paul when quoting the law G3551 of Moses G3475, "Thou shalt not muzzle G5392 the ox that treadeth out the corn" 1 Corinthians 9:9.
- G3688 ónos (an ass): This animal is frequently paired with the ox in Jesus' teachings to illustrate a point of common sense. In challenging the Pharisees, he asks if they would not care for their ox or their ass on the sabbath Luke 13:15.
- G2201 zeûgos (yoke, pair): This term specifies a team of animals working together. It is used in the excuse of a man who had bought G59 "five yoke of oxen" and could not attend a great supper Luke 14:19.
The use of G1016 carries significant theological weight, often as the basis for a larger spiritual principle.
- Principle of Just Compensation: Paul uses the law about not muzzling a working ox to establish that a labourer G2040 is worthy of his reward G3408 1 Timothy 5:18. He asks rhetorically, "Doth God G2316 take care for oxen?" to show the principle extends to human workers 1 Corinthians 9:9.
- Mercy over Legalism: Jesus refers to the common-sense care for an ox on the Sabbath to rebuke the hypocrisy of religious leaders. By pointing out that they would loose G3089 an ox to give it water Luke 13:15 or rescue it from a pit G5421, he teaches that acts of mercy are a proper fulfillment of the law.
- Sanctity of Worship: The presence of oxen being sold in the temple was part of the scene that provoked Jesus to righteous action. He drove them out with a scourge G5416 of small cords G4979, demonstrating that God's house is a place for worship, not for commerce John 2:15.
In summary, boûs G1016 is more than a simple reference to a farm animal. It is a tangible part of ancient life used to illustrate profound spiritual truths. From its role in commerce at the temple to its function in agricultural labor, the ox serves as a powerful illustration in teachings about just payment, the true meaning of the Sabbath, and the holiness of God's house. Scripture uses this common creature to connect everyday life to divine principles.
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