a prolonged form of a primary verb (which in its simpler form occurs only as an alternate in certain tenses); to fix ("peg"), i.e. (specially) to set up (a tent):--pitch.
Transliteration:pḗgnymi
Pronunciation:payg'-noo-mee
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb πήγνυμι (pḗgnymi, `{{G4078}}`) is a prolonged form of a primary verb, carrying the core meaning "to fix" or "to peg." While its basic sense is to make something stationary or secure, its specialized usage, particularly in the context of the New Testament, refers to the act of "setting up" or "pitching" a tent or a similar structure. This implies a deliberate and effective action of establishing something firmly in place, often by driving pegs into the ground to secure its foundation. The nuance of πήγνυμι thus extends beyond mere placement to encompass the act of making something stable and enduring.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb πήγνυμι (pḗgnymi, `{{G4078}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, yet its singular occurrence carries profound theological weight. This sole instance is found in [[Hebrews 8:2]], where it describes the heavenly sanctuary: "a minister of the sanctuary and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, not man."
In this critical verse, πήγνυμι is used to differentiate the earthly tabernacle, constructed by human hands, from the "true tabernacle" in heaven, which is established by God Himself. The contrast is stark: human effort results in a temporary, typological structure, whereas divine action brings into being an eternal, ultimate reality. The choice of πήγνυμι here emphasizes the divine origin and unshakeable stability of this heavenly sanctuary. It is not merely a place set up, but one divinely fixed and secured, serving as the locus of Christ's superior high priestly ministry. This single usage underscores the divine sovereignty and efficacy in establishing the new covenant reality.
### Related Words & Concepts
To fully appreciate πήγνυμι (pḗgnymi, `{{G4078}}`), it is helpful to consider related biblical terms and concepts. In the Greek New Testament, the noun `{{G4637}}` (skēnē, "tent, tabernacle") is closely associated, as πήγνυμι describes the action of setting up such a structure. The verb `{{G4638}}` (skēnoō, "to tabernacle, to dwell") also shares a conceptual link, as it speaks of dwelling in a tent, most notably of God "tabernacling" among humanity in the person of Christ ([[John 1:14]]).
In the Old Testament, the Hebrew terms for "tabernacle" (`{{H4908}}`, mishkan) and "tent" (`{{H168}}`, ohel), along with the verb "to dwell" (`{{H7931}}`, shakan), provide the foundational imagery that the author of Hebrews draws upon. The act of "pitching" a tent is a recurring motif in the wilderness narratives, signifying a temporary dwelling place. However, πήγνυμι in [[Hebrews 8:2]] elevates this concept to an eternal, divine act, contrasting with the transient nature of earthly dwellings.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of πήγνυμι (pḗgnymi, `{{G4078}}`) is immense, primarily due to its singular, pivotal use in [[Hebrews 8:2]]. By stating that the Lord "pitched" the true tabernacle, the author of Hebrews establishes the divine origin and eternal nature of Christ's ministry and the heavenly sanctuary. This contrasts sharply with the earthly tabernacle, which was a "type" or "shadow" ([[Hebrews 8:5]]) and was constructed by human hands.
The act of God "pitching" or "fixing" the heavenly tabernacle implies:
1. **Divine Initiative and Sovereignty:** The true place of worship and atonement is not a human invention but a divine establishment. God Himself is the architect and builder, ensuring its perfection and efficacy.
2. **Permanence and Stability:** Unlike the earthly tabernacle, which was portable and eventually superseded, the heavenly tabernacle "pitched" by God is unshakeable and eternal. It signifies an enduring reality that cannot be dismantled or replaced.
3. **Superiority of the New Covenant:** This divine "pitching" underscores the superiority of the new covenant mediated by Christ, whose priesthood and sanctuary are heavenly, real, and everlasting, as opposed to the earthly, temporary, and typological system of the old covenant.
4. **Christ's Unique Role:** As the minister of this divinely "pitched" sanctuary, Christ's high priestly work is rooted in an eternal, heavenly reality, providing a perfect and final atonement.
### Summary
πήγνυμι (pḗgnymi, `{{G4078}}`) fundamentally means "to fix" or "to set up," especially a tent. Its sole New Testament appearance in [[Hebrews 8:2]] is profoundly significant, describing the Lord's divine act of "pitching" or "establishing" the true, heavenly tabernacle. This usage highlights the divine origin, permanence, and unshakeable nature of Christ's high priestly ministry and the new covenant sanctuary. By contrasting this divinely-established reality with the temporary, human-made earthly tabernacle, πήγνυμι underscores the superiority of God's perfect provision for worship and reconciliation, rooted in an eternal, heavenly realm. The word thus points to God's sovereign and effective establishment of the ultimate place of communion with Him.
TRV