### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **onikós**, represented by `{{G3684}}`, describes something **belonging to a ass**. It is used in scripture to signify an object so large that it must be turned by a donkey, specifically a **millstone**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. This specific adjective emphasizes the immense size and weight of the millstone being described.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G3684}}` appears in a stark warning from Jesus about the severe consequences of causing others to sin. Both occurrences describe a grim fate for anyone who causes one of the "little ones" who believe in Him to stumble. The image presented is of a massive millstone, an **onikós** millstone, being hanged about a person's neck before they are drowned in the sea ([[Matthew 18:6]], [[Luke 17:2]]). The use of this specific term highlights the inescapable and terrible nature of the judgment for such an offense.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help frame the context of this severe warning:
* `{{G3458}}` **mýlos** (a "mill", i.e. (by implication), a grinder (millstone)): This is the noun that `{{G3684}}` modifies. The combination of the two words describes not just any millstone, but one of the largest and heaviest types, an "ass-turned millstone" [[Matthew 18:6]].
* `{{G4624}}` **skandalízō** (to entrap, i.e. trip up (figuratively, stumble (transitively) or entice to sin, apostasy or displeasure)): This is the action that provokes the warning. The dire punishment is reserved for one who would **offend** one of the "little ones" [[Luke 17:2]].
* `{{G5137}}` **tráchēlos** (the throat (neck), i.e. (figuratively) life): The millstone is to be hung about the **neck** of the offender, a detail which emphasizes the personal and fatal nature of the consequence [[Matthew 18:6]].
* `{{G2670}}` **katapontízō** (to plunge down, i.e. submerge): This verb depicts the ultimate outcome. Weighed down by the massive millstone, the person would be **drowned** in the sea [[Matthew 18:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3684}}` is concentrated in its powerful imagery.
* **Gravity of Sin:** The use of `{{G3684}}` to specify a donkey-driven millstone, an object of immense weight, serves as a hyperbole to illustrate the extreme seriousness of causing a believer to fall into sin.
* **Value of the Faithful:** The severity of the punishment directly reflects the high value God places on his "little ones." The choice of such a weighty and specific term underscores the protective watchcare over those who believe [[Matthew 18:6]].
* **Certainty of Judgment:** Being cast into the sea with an `onikós` millstone is an image of certain and irreversible death. The word contributes to a sense of finality and the inescapable nature of judgment for those who harm the faithful [[Luke 17:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3684}}` is more than a simple adjective. Though used only twice, **onikós** provides a crucial detail that intensifies one of Jesus' most sobering warnings. By specifying a millstone so large it required an animal to turn it, the word creates a powerful and unforgettable illustration of the gravity of sin and the profound value God places on each of his followers.
TRV