The Greek word neossós, represented by G3502, is derived from νέος and means a youngling (nestling) or simply young. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, highlighting its specific and rare usage. The term is used to describe the young of a bird, specifically in the context of a sacrifice.
The sole appearance of G3502 is in Luke 2:24, which describes the offering made at the temple following Jesus's birth. The text states the purpose was "to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons" Luke 2:24. In this context, neossós modifies the word for "pigeons," specifying that the birds for the offering were to be young ones, fulfilling a requirement of the law.
The meaning of G3502 is clarified by the words used alongside it in its only biblical appearance:
- G4058 peristerá (a pigeon): This is the creature that G3502 directly describes in the sacrificial offering mentioned in Luke 2:24. While peristerá can mean pigeon or dove, in this context it is specified as being "young."
- G5167 trygṓn (a turtle-dove): This word is presented as an alternative offering in the same verse Luke 2:24. The law allowed for either "a pair of turtledoves" or "two young pigeons."
While G3502 has a very narrow application, its context in scripture carries theological weight.
- Obedience to the Law: The word's only appearance is within a description of a sacrifice being performed "according to that which is said in the law of the Lord" Luke 2:24. This highlights the importance of adherence to the specific requirements of the law.
- Context of Sacrifice: Neossós is used exclusively to define an animal intended for a religious offering. This ties the word directly to the temple rites and the system of sacrifice outlined in the law of the Lord.
- Specificity in Worship: The use of a precise term like "young" (neossós) for the pigeons underscores the detailed nature of the instructions for offerings made to the Lord.
In summary, G3502 neossós is a highly specific term, meaning youngling or nestling. Its singular use in the New Testament is to describe the "young pigeons" offered as a sacrifice in accordance with the law of the Lord Luke 2:24. While its direct meaning is biological, its context places it squarely within the framework of religious observance and obedience, illustrating how even a simple descriptive word can play a role in the fulfillment of sacred duties.
TRV