perhaps from ὀπτάνομαι (through the idea of the shading or proximity to the organ of vision); the eye-"brow" or forehead, i.e. (figuratively) the brink of a precipice:--brow.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun ὀφρῦς (ophrŷs), Strong's number `{{G3790}}`, carries a primary anatomical meaning and a significant figurative extension. Literally, it refers to the "eyebrow" or, more broadly, the "forehead" or "brow" of the face. This literal sense aligns with the suggested etymological root from ὀπτάνομαι (optanomai), `{{G3700}}`, which relates to seeing or appearing, implying the eyebrow's role in framing or shading the organ of vision.
Figuratively, ὀφρῦς extends to describe the "brow" or "brink" of a precipice, a steep cliff, or a hill. This semantic leap is natural, as the "brow" of a human face is a prominent, often elevated, feature. Similarly, the "brow" of a hill denotes its highest, often most dangerous, edge. Thus, the word encompasses both a part of the human anatomy and a perilous topographical feature, linking the idea of an elevated edge to both.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ὀφρῦς (ophrŷs), `{{G3790}}`, appears only once in the New Testament, yet its singular occurrence is profoundly impactful and illustrative of its figurative meaning.
In [[Luke 4:29]], the text describes the hostile reaction of the people of Nazareth to Jesus' sermon in the synagogue: "And they rose up and drove him out of the city and led him to the brow of the hill on which their city was built, so that they could throw him down." Here, ὀφρῦς clearly denotes the precipitous edge of a cliff. The context is one of extreme rejection and attempted murder. The citizens, filled with rage at Jesus' words, intended to cast him down from this "brow" to his death. This scene marks a pivotal moment in Jesus' public ministry, revealing the deep-seated animosity he would face, even from those in his hometown. The "brow" becomes a literal stage for their murderous intent, highlighting the immediate danger Jesus faced and his miraculous escape from their grasp.
### Related Words & Concepts
While ὀφρῦς (ophrŷs), `{{G3790}}`, specifically refers to the "brow" as an edge, other Greek terms contribute to the semantic field of elevated or dangerous places. Κρημνός (krēmnos), `{{G2912}}`, for instance, denotes a "steep place" or "cliff," as seen in [[Matthew 8:32]] and [[Mark 5:13]] where the swine rush down a steep bank. This term emphasizes the sheer drop, whereas ὀφρῦς focuses on the *edge* itself.
In relation to the human face, μέτωπον (metōpon), `{{G3359}}`, is the more common term for "forehead" and is notably used in Revelation concerning marks on the forehead (e.g., [[Revelation 7:3]]). The use of ὀφρῦς in [[Luke 4:29]] specifically for the "brow" of a hill underscores its unique application to a prominent, projecting edge.
The concept of "high places" or "mountains" (ὄρος, oros, `{{G3735}}`) is pervasive in biblical narrative, often serving as sites for divine encounter, revelation, or, conversely, idolatry. While ὀφρῦς does not carry the theological weight of ὄρος, its single usage in Luke's Gospel transforms a mundane topographical feature into a symbol of human animosity and divine preservation.
### Theological Significance
Despite its solitary appearance, the theological significance of ὀφρῦς (ophrŷs), `{{G3790}}`, in [[Luke 4:29]] is profound. The "brow of the hill" in Nazareth becomes a potent symbol of humanity's rejection of God's Anointed One. This incident is the first recorded attempt on Jesus' life, foreshadowing the ultimate act of rejection and execution on Golgotha. The intent to cast Jesus down from the precipice mirrors the spiritual desire of fallen humanity to cast down and nullify divine truth and authority.
Furthermore, Jesus' miraculous escape from this perilous "brow" speaks to his divine sovereignty and the Father's protective hand. It signifies that Jesus' life would not be taken by human design but surrendered at the appointed time and place, according to God's redemptive plan. The scene underscores the tension between human malice and divine purpose, demonstrating that no human plot, however violent, could thwart the will of God until the cross, which was itself part of the divine will. The "brow" thus stands as a stark reminder of the depth of human sin and the steadfastness of God's salvation plan.
### Summary
The Greek word ὀφρῦς (ophrŷs), `{{G3790}}`, primarily denotes the "eyebrow" or "forehead," but its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Luke 4:29]] employs its figurative meaning: the "brow" or brink of a precipice. This singular usage is critically important, depicting the moment the people of Nazareth attempted to cast Jesus down from a cliff. The "brow of the hill" thus serves as a powerful symbol of human rejection and murderous intent against the Messiah, foreshadowing his eventual crucifixion. Yet, it also highlights Jesus' divine control over his destiny and God's sovereign protection until the appointed time for his sacrifice. The word, though rare, encapsulates a pivotal moment of confrontation between divine truth and human hostility, underscoring the perilous path of the Son of God.
TRV