### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ónos**, represented by `{{G3688}}`, is a primary term for a **donkey** or **ass**. It appears 6 times across 6 unique verses in the Bible. While a simple word, its usage is notable, primarily in the context of Jesus's teachings on the Sabbath and His triumphal entry into Jerusalem.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3688}}` is used to illustrate both everyday life and key prophetic moments. Jesus uses the example of an **ass** to challenge the hypocrisy of his listeners regarding Sabbath laws, questioning if they would not loose their **ass** to give it water [[Luke 13:15]] or pull it from a pit [[Luke 14:5]]. The word's most prominent use is in the accounts of Jesus's entry into Jerusalem, where the disciples are instructed to find an **ass** tied with a colt [[Matthew 21:2]]. This fulfills the proclamation, "Behold, thy King cometh... sitting upon an **ass**" [[Matthew 21:5]]. The disciples then brought the **ass** and the colt for Jesus to sit upon [[Matthew 21:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and type of animals mentioned alongside `{{G3688}}`:
* `{{G1016}}` **boûs**: This word means "an ox" and is often paired with **ass** in agricultural or domestic contexts. For instance, Jesus mentions that a person would loose their **ox** or their ass on the Sabbath [[Luke 13:15]].
* `{{G4454}}` **pōlos**: Defined as a "foal" or "filly", and specially a young ass or "colt." This word is consistently used with **ónos** in the Triumphal Entry story, specifying the animal Jesus rode was an **ass's** colt [[John 12:15]] found with its mother [[Matthew 21:2]].
* `{{G5268}}` **hypozýgion**: Meaning "an animal under the yoke" or specifically a donkey or **ass**. This term is used in [[Matthew 21:5]] to describe the parent of the colt, emphasizing the lineage of the animal Jesus rode.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3688}}` is derived from its symbolic role in the Gospels.
* **Royal Humility:** The King's arrival on an **ass** is a powerful symbol of meekness. The description of the King as "meek, and sitting upon an **ass**" [[Matthew 21:5]] intentionally contrasts with the image of a conquering ruler, defining the nature of His kingdom.
* **Prophetic Fulfillment:** The specific act of riding an **ass** into Jerusalem is presented as a direct fulfillment of prophecy. [[Matthew 21:5]] and [[John 12:15]] both connect this event to the words spoken to the "daughter of Sion" about her coming King.
* **Compassion and Law:** In Jesus's teachings, the care for an **ass** is used as a standard of basic compassion that should inform the understanding of God's law, particularly the Sabbath ([[Luke 13:15]], [[Luke 14:5]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3688}}` **ónos** is more than just a label for a common animal. It functions within scripture as both a practical example in teachings about law and compassion and as a crucial prophetic symbol. Its appearance in the Triumphal Entry narrative ([[Matthew 21:5]], [[John 12:15]]) solidifies its importance, representing the humility and rightful kingship of Jesus. The word illustrates how an ordinary creature can be central to demonstrating profound theological truths.
TRV