probably from an obsolete (to rise or "rear"; perhaps akin to αἴρω; compare ὄρνις); a mountain (as lifting itself above the plain):--hill, mount(-ain).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term *óros* (G3735) fundamentally denotes a "mountain" or "hill." Its etymological root is likely from an obsolete verb meaning "to rise" or "rear," suggesting an elevation that lifts itself above the surrounding plain. This core meaning emphasizes the physical characteristic of height and prominence. Semantically, *óros* can refer to any elevated landmass, from a modest hill to a towering peak, and is used to distinguish such features from valleys, plains, or bodies of water.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word *óros* appears frequently in the New Testament, often serving as a significant geographical setting for pivotal events in the life and ministry of Jesus.
* **Sites of Teaching and Revelation:** The most prominent example is the "Sermon on the Mount" [[Matthew 5:1]], [[Luke 6:17]], where Jesus delivers foundational teachings, echoing the Old Testament tradition of divine law being revealed on a mountain (e.g., Mount Sinai). The Transfiguration also takes place on a "high mountain" [[Matthew 17:1]], [[Mark 9:2]], [[Luke 9:28]], a locus of divine glory and revelation of Christ's true identity.
* **Places of Prayer and Solitude:** Jesus frequently withdrew to a mountain for prayer and communion with God, highlighting these elevated places as sites of spiritual retreat and intimate fellowship [[Matthew 14:23]], [[Mark 6:46]], [[Luke 9:28]]. This practice underscores the importance of solitude in spiritual discipline.
* **Narrative Landmarks:** The Mount of Olives is a recurring and highly significant *óros* in the Gospels and Acts, serving as the location for Jesus' Olivet Discourse [[Matthew 24:3]], his ascension into heaven [[Acts 1:12]], and a place of prayer before his arrest [[Luke 22:39]].
* **Symbolic Usage:** The phrase "moving mountains" [[Matthew 17:20]], [[Mark 11:23]], [[1 Corinthians 13:2]] is a powerful metaphor for overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles through faith. Here, the mountain represents an immense, immovable impediment. In prophetic contexts, mountains can also symbolize kingdoms or powers, as seen in some Old Testament prophecies that find echoes in New Testament thought.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Hebrew Equivalents:** The primary Hebrew counterpart to *óros* is `{{H2022}}` (*har*), which similarly denotes a "mountain" or "hill." The Old Testament often depicts mountains as sacred spaces of divine encounter (Mount Sinai, Mount Zion, Mount Carmel).
* **Related Greek Terms:** While not directly synonymous, *óros* stands in contrast to terms like `{{G1093}}` (*ge*), which refers to the broader "earth" or "land," and `{{G2691}}` (*katō*), meaning "down" or "below," emphasizing the elevated nature of the mountain.
* **Conceptual Links:**
* **Elevation and Exaltation:** The physical height of a mountain often correlates with spiritual elevation, divine presence, or a place of authority.
* **Stability and Permanence:** Mountains are ancient and enduring features, symbolizing the steadfastness of God's character or His eternal decrees.
* **Isolation and Sanctuary:** Their ruggedness and height offer natural places of refuge, solitude, or inaccessibility.
* **Obstacle and Challenge:** As seen in the idiom of "moving mountains," they can represent formidable difficulties.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *óros* is profound and multifaceted.
* **Divine Presence and Revelation:** Mountains are consistently portrayed as loci of divine encounter and revelation. Just as Yahweh manifested His glory and delivered the Law on Mount Sinai, Jesus delivers the new covenant teachings and reveals His divine glory on mountains, establishing a continuity of divine communication.
* **Prayer and Intimacy with God:** Jesus' frequent retreats to mountains for prayer establish them as consecrated spaces for intimate communion with the Father. This underscores the importance of seeking solitude and elevation of spirit in prayer.
* **The Power of Faith:** The metaphor of "moving mountains" highlights the boundless power available through faith in God. It teaches that no obstacle is too great for divine intervention, challenging believers to trust in God's omnipotence.
* **Eschatological and Prophetic Implications:** Specific mountains, particularly the Mount of Olives, carry significant prophetic weight regarding the end times and the return of Christ, linking the geographical reality to the unfolding of God's redemptive plan.
* **A Place of Testing and Victory:** While often associated with divine presence, mountains can also be sites of spiritual testing, as seen in Jesus' temptation on a "very high mountain" [[Matthew 4:8]], where He ultimately triumphs over temptation.
### Summary
*Óros* (G3735) designates a "mountain" or "hill," a physical elevation of the earth. Its usage in the New Testament transcends mere geographical description, imbuing these natural features with rich theological significance. Mountains serve as critical settings for Jesus' ministry, symbolizing places of divine presence, authoritative teaching, profound revelation (such as the Transfiguration), and intimate prayer. The concept of "moving mountains" powerfully illustrates the transformative power of faith in overcoming immense obstacles. Furthermore, specific mountains, like the Mount of Olives, hold crucial prophetic and eschatological importance. The consistent portrayal of *óros* as a site of divine encounter, spiritual discipline, and the demonstration of God's power underscores its enduring importance in biblical narrative and Christian theology.
TRV