### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **zeûgos**, represented by `{{G2201}}`, describes a **couple** or **team**. Its base definition is "from the same as ζυγός; a couple, i.e. a team (of oxen yoked together) or brace (of birds tied together):--yoke, pair." This specific term appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, illustrating two distinct contexts: religious offering and worldly labor.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical appearances, `{{G2201}}` is used both literally and figuratively. In [[Luke 2:24]], it refers to a "**pair** of turtledoves" as part of a **sacrifice** `{{G2378}}` offered according to the **law** `{{G3551}}` of the Lord. The second instance occurs in a parable in [[Luke 14:19]], where a man makes an excuse for declining an invitation, saying, "I have bought five **yoke** of oxen, and I go to prove them." Here, the **yoke** represents a significant material possession and responsibility.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G2201}}` in its contexts:
* `{{G1016}}` **boûs** (ox): This word is directly linked to the use of **zeûgos** as a "yoke." An **ox** was a key animal for labor, and owning five yoke represented a substantial investment that required attention [[Luke 14:19]].
* `{{G2378}}` **thysía** (sacrifice): This term is central to the context of offering a "pair" of birds. It refers to the **sacrifice** (the act or the victim) itself, highlighting an act of worship prescribed by law [[Luke 2:24]]. The concept is later expanded to include spiritual **sacrifices** [[Romans 12:1]].
* `{{G1381}}` **dokimázō** (to test; by implication, to approve): The man who bought the oxen needed to **prove** them. This word signifies testing something to approve its value, which, in the parable, becomes a higher priority than the invitation he received [[Luke 14:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2201}}` is seen in the contrast between its two uses.
* **Fulfillment of the Law:** The offering of a "**pair** of turtledoves" is an act performed "according{G2596} to that which is said{G2046} in{G1722} the law{G3551} of the Lord{G2962}" [[Luke 2:24]]. This use underscores the importance of obedience and faithfulness to divine commands.
* **Worldly Hindrances:** In the parable, the "**yoke** of oxen" becomes a symbol of worldly entanglements that serve as an **excuse** `{{G3868}}` to refuse a spiritual calling. It represents how material responsibilities can distract from the kingdom of God [[Luke 14:19]].
* **Testing of Priorities:** The need to **prove** `{{G1381}}` the oxen highlights a theme of testing what one holds valuable. While the man tested his earthly investment, the parable implicitly challenges the listener to **prove** `{{G1381}}` what is truly important, such as the will of God [[Romans 12:2]].
### Summary
In summary, **zeûgos** `{{G2201}}` is a term whose significance belies its infrequent use. It functions on two levels: as a literal "**pair**" for a religious **sacrifice** `{{G2378}}`, demonstrating righteousness under the law, and as a figurative "**yoke**" of possessions that can become an obstacle to faith. Through this simple word, scripture illustrates the critical tension between dutiful worship and the worldly priorities that can hinder it.
TRV