### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ónar**, represented by `{{G3677}}`, is a term for **a dream**. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. The word is of uncertain derivation and, within its scriptural use, specifically denotes a dream as a vehicle for a message or warning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3677}}` is used exclusively in the Gospel of Matthew to describe moments of divine intervention. An angel of the Lord appears to Joseph in a **dream** on three separate occasions to guide and protect the holy family ([[Matthew 1:20]], [[Matthew 2:13]], [[Matthew 2:19]]). Similarly, both the Magi and Joseph are "warned of God in a **dream**" to alter their travel plans and avoid danger ([[Matthew 2:12]], [[Matthew 2:22]]). The term is also used in the account of Pilate's wife, who suffered many things in a **dream** because of Jesus, prompting her to send a warning to her husband [[Matthew 27:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the experience of receiving a `{{G3677}}` dream:
* `{{G5537}}` **chrēmatízō** (to utter an oracle... divinely intimate... be admonished (warned) of God): This word specifies the divine nature of the message received in a dream, as when the Magi and Joseph were warned by God ([[Matthew 2:12]], [[Matthew 2:22]]).
* `{{G5316}}` **phaínō** (to lighten (shine), i.e. show... appear, seem, be seen): This term describes the action of the angel who "appeareth" to Joseph within the dream state, making the divine communication manifest ([[Matthew 2:13]], [[Matthew 2:19]]).
* `{{G1760}}` **enthyméomai** (to be inspirited, i.e. ponder:--think): This word is used to describe Joseph’s state of mind, as he "thought on these things" just before an angel appeared to him in a dream, connecting human pondering with subsequent divine revelation [[Matthew 1:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3677}}` is demonstrated through its specific function in the narrative of Jesus's life.
* **Divine Guidance:** Dreams are shown to be a primary method by which God directs the actions of his faithful. Joseph is repeatedly guided by messages received in a **dream**, from taking Mary as his wife to fleeing to Egypt and later returning ([[Matthew 1:20]], [[Matthew 2:13]], [[Matthew 2:19]]).
* **Supernatural Warning:** The word is consistently linked with divine warnings intended to protect individuals and preserve God's plan. This is seen when the Magi are warned about Herod and when Joseph is warned about Archelaus ([[Matthew 2:12]], [[Matthew 2:22]]).
* **Revelation of God's Will:** The content of the dreams reveals God's active involvement in human events. The first dream to Joseph confirms that what is conceived in Mary is of the Holy Ghost, establishing a foundational truth of the incarnation [[Matthew 1:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3677}}` is not used to describe an ordinary dream. Within its biblical context, **ónar** represents a specific and purposeful channel for divine communication. Its use, concentrated entirely in Matthew's gospel, underscores God's direct and supernatural intervention to guide, protect, and reveal His will during the pivotal events of Jesus's birth and life.
TRV