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.
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.
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.
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.
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