### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun λόγχη (lónchē, `{{G3057}}`) denotes a "lance" or "spear," a weapon characterized by a long shaft and a sharp, pointed head, typically used for thrusting or throwing. The base definition indicates it is perhaps a primary word, suggesting it does not derive from a more fundamental root in Greek. Its semantic range is quite narrow and literal, referring specifically to this type of military implement. Unlike some other terms for weapons, λόγχη does not appear to carry significant metaphorical or symbolic connotations beyond its direct physical application in ancient Greek literature, nor does it in its sole biblical occurrence. It designates a concrete instrument of war, designed for piercing or striking.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term λόγχη appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[John 19:34]]. This singular occurrence is profoundly significant, marking a pivotal moment in the crucifixion narrative: "But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear (λόγχη), and immediately blood and water came out." The context is the death of Jesus on the cross. After Jesus had already died, the soldiers came to break the legs of the crucified men to hasten their deaths, in accordance with Jewish law to prevent bodies from remaining on the cross on the Sabbath. However, finding Jesus already dead, a soldier, identified by tradition as Longinus, used a spear to confirm His death. This act of piercing, though seemingly a mundane military procedure, is elevated by the evangelist John to a moment of profound theological import. It serves as undeniable proof of Jesus' physical death, refuting any notion that He merely swooned or survived the crucifixion. The immediate outflow of blood and water is also noted, a detail rich with symbolic meaning that John emphasizes.
### Related Words & Concepts
While λόγχη specifically denotes a spear, its context in the crucifixion narrative connects it to broader themes of violence, sacrifice, and the instruments of Christ's suffering. Other Greek words for weapons include `{{G4474}}` (rhomphaia), often translated as "sword" or "great sword," which can carry a more symbolic or eschatological weight (e.g., [[Revelation 1:16]]). The act of piercing itself is captured by verbs like `{{G2660}}` (katanygō), "to prick deeply" or "pierce through," used in a spiritual sense in [[Acts 2:37]] to describe conviction. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew equivalent for "spear" or "lance" often appears as `{{H7429}}` (romach) or `{{H2595}}` (chanith). The concept of being "pierced" is central to messianic prophecy, notably in [[Zechariah 12:10]], which is explicitly referenced by John in [[John 19:37]] in relation to this very event. Other related concepts include the cross (`{{G4716}}` - stauros), the suffering servant, and the shedding of blood for atonement.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of λόγχη at the climax of John's passion narrative carries immense theological weight. The piercing of Jesus' side by the soldier's spear is presented as a direct fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, particularly [[Zechariah 12:10]], "They will look on me, the one they have pierced." This fulfillment underscores the divine orchestration of the crucifixion, even in its most brutal details. Furthermore, the outflow of "blood and water" from Jesus' side, immediately following the spear thrust, is interpreted by many scholars as profoundly symbolic. The blood signifies the atoning sacrifice of Christ and the new covenant, while the water can represent purification, the Holy Spirit, or the life-giving streams of salvation (cf. [[John 7:38]]). This event thus becomes a wellspring of grace and the sacraments (Eucharist and Baptism). The λόγχη therefore serves not merely as an instrument of death, but as a catalyst for revealing the depth of Christ's sacrifice and the source of new life for believers. It also serves as irrefutable evidence of Jesus' true humanity and physical death, foundational tenets of Christian doctrine against early heresies like Docetism.
### Summary
In summary, λόγχη (lónchē, `{{G3057}}`) precisely identifies the spear used by a Roman soldier to pierce the side of the crucified Christ, an event recorded solely in [[John 19:34]]. This singular occurrence, though brief, is profoundly significant, serving as a pivotal moment in the passion narrative. The spear confirms the physical death of Jesus, fulfilling Old Testament prophecy (specifically [[Zechariah 12:10]]), and symbolically initiates the outpouring of blood and water, understood as the sources of salvation and the sacraments. Thus, the λόγχη, while a simple instrument of violence, becomes an instrument through which profound theological truths about Christ's sacrifice, humanity, and the new covenant are revealed.
TRV