### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective πεδινός (pedinós, `{{G3977}}`) is derived from a concept related to πούς (pous, `{{G4228}}`), meaning "foot." Its core meaning denotes a physical space that is "level" or "plain," specifically characterized as being "easy for the feet." This implies a smooth, unobstructed, and relatively flat terrain, in contrast to mountainous or rugged ground. The semantic range of πεδινός is primarily geographical and descriptive, referring to the physical topography of an area suitable for walking or gathering. There is no inherent metaphorical or abstract meaning in its base definition; it describes a literal physical environment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term πεδινός (pedinós, `{{G3977}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the Gospel of Luke:
* **[[Luke 6:17]]**: "And he came down with them and stood on a level place (πεδινός), with a great crowd of his disciples and a great multitude of people from all Judea and Jerusalem and the seacoast of Tyre and Sidon."
In this singular occurrence, πεδινός is used to describe the geographical setting where Jesus descends from an implied higher elevation (likely a mountain, as per [[Luke 6:12]] which mentions Jesus going to "the mountain to pray") to meet a vast assembly of people. This "level place" or "plain" serves as the immediate backdrop for the Sermon on the Plain, which follows in [[Luke 6:20-49]]. The context is purely descriptive, providing a detail about the terrain that facilitated the gathering of such a large multitude. It signifies an open, accessible area, contrasting with the more isolated or elevated locations Jesus sometimes sought for prayer or specific instruction to his disciples.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation to πεδινός (pedinós, `{{G3977}}`) is its etymological root, πούς (pous, `{{G4228}}`), meaning "foot." This connection underscores the idea of ground that is suitable or "easy for the feet," highlighting its physical quality for human movement and habitation.
Conceptually, πεδινός stands in contrast to terms describing elevated or rugged terrain, such as ὄρος (oros, `{{G3735}}`, "mountain") or βουνός (bounos, `{{G1015}}`, "hill"). While not directly synonymous, the concept of a "plain" often evokes ideas of:
* **Accessibility:** A place easily reached by many.
* **Gathering:** A suitable space for large assemblies, as seen in [[Luke 6:17]].
* **Openness:** A wide, unobstructed area.
Though πεδινός itself is a simple descriptive term, its contextual use in Luke hints at broader theological themes related to the universal reach of Christ's ministry.
### Theological Significance
While πεδινός (pedinós, `{{G3977}}`) is a purely descriptive term, its single appearance in [[Luke 6:17]] carries subtle yet profound theological implications within the Lukan narrative:
1. **Accessibility of Christ:** Jesus' descent from the mountain to the "level place" (πεδινός) to meet the crowds symbolizes his divine condescension and accessibility to all people. Unlike the exclusive setting of the mountain, which often represents divine revelation to a select few (e.g., Moses on Sinai), the plain signifies a place where the common person, regardless of status or physical ability, can encounter the Lord. This act underscores the inclusive nature of Jesus' ministry.
2. **Platform for Universal Teaching:** The "level place" becomes the setting for the Sermon on the Plain, Luke's version of Jesus' foundational teachings. By delivering this sermon on a πεδινός, Jesus proclaims that divine truth is not reserved for the elevated or the elite, but is offered on accessible ground, for the benefit of the masses. The very levelness of the ground can subtly reflect the universality and impartiality of the message being delivered.
3. **Contrast with the Mountain of Solitude/Revelation:** The narrative structure in Luke, where Jesus descends from a mountain (where he prayed, [[Luke 6:12]]) to the plain, highlights a deliberate movement from solitude and intimate communion with God to public ministry and engagement with humanity. The πεδινός thus represents the sphere of human need and the common ground where God's saving grace and teaching intersect with daily life.
### Summary
The Greek word πεδινός (pedinós, `{{G3977}}`) literally means "level" or "plain," describing ground that is "easy for the feet." Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Luke 6:17]] describes the physical location where Jesus encounters a vast multitude before delivering the Sermon on the Plain. This seemingly simple geographical detail holds significant theological weight. It emphasizes the accessibility of Jesus Christ to all people, symbolizing his descent from divine prerogative to meet humanity on common ground. The "level place" serves as a powerful metaphor for the inclusive nature of his ministry and the universal reach of his transformative teachings, offered not from an exclusive height, but on a plain where all can gather and receive.
TRV