probably neuter of a presumed derivative of προβαίνω; something that walks forward (a quadruped), i.e. (specially), a sheep (literally or figuratively):--sheep(-fold).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun πρόβατον (próbaton, `{{G4263}}`) fundamentally denotes "something that walks forward" or "a quadruped," stemming from its presumed connection to the verb προβαίνω (probainō, to go forward, advance). In its specialized and predominant usage within the New Testament, it refers specifically to a "sheep." This term encompasses both male and female sheep, and its semantic range extends from the literal animal to profound figurative applications. The etymological root highlights the characteristic movement of grazing animals, emphasizing their nature as creatures that advance in search of sustenance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term πρόβατον occurs frequently in the New Testament, often carrying significant theological weight. Literally, it refers to actual sheep, as seen in the context of the temple market ([[John 2:14]]) or the description of sheep without a shepherd ([[Matthew 9:36]], [[Mark 6:34]]). However, its most impactful uses are figurative, serving as a powerful metaphor for humanity, particularly God's people.
Jesus frequently employs the imagery of sheep:
* **The Lost Sheep:** In parables such as [[Matthew 18:12-14]] and [[Luke 15:3-7]], a single lost sheep represents a sinner for whom the shepherd (God/Jesus) diligently searches. This highlights God's passionate desire for the repentance and salvation of individuals.
* **Sheep Among Wolves:** When commissioning His disciples, Jesus warns them, "Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves" ([[Matthew 10:16]]). This underscores the vulnerability and innocence of His followers in a hostile world, while also implying their need for divine wisdom and protection.
* **The Good Shepherd:** Perhaps the most profound usage is found in [[John 10]], where Jesus declares Himself the "Good Shepherd" who knows His sheep, calls them by name, leads them, and lays down His life for them ([[John 10:11, 14-15]]). Here, the sheep are His devoted followers who hear His voice and follow Him.
* **Separation of Sheep and Goats:** In the eschatological judgment scene of [[Matthew 25:31-46]], humanity is divided into "sheep" and "goats." The "sheep" represent those who have demonstrated true faith through acts of compassion and service to "the least of these," thereby inheriting the kingdom. This stark contrast emphasizes the ultimate accountability of individuals before God.
* **Feeding the Sheep:** After His resurrection, Jesus commissions Peter to "feed my sheep" and "tend my sheep" ([[John 21:15-17]]), underscoring the pastoral responsibility of caring for God's people.
### Related Words & Concepts
The understanding of πρόβατον is enriched by its relationship to several interconnected terms and concepts:
* **Shepherd:** The most direct correlate is ποιμήν (poimēn, `{{G4166}}`), meaning "shepherd." The relationship between sheep and shepherd is foundational to biblical understanding of divine care and human dependence.
* **Flock:** The collective noun for sheep is ποίμνη (poimnē, `{{G4167}}`), referring to a "flock" or "fold." This term often describes the community of believers, the Church, under the care of its shepherds (e.g., [[Acts 20:28]], [[1 Peter 5:2-3]]).
* **Lamb:** While πρόβατον is a general term for sheep, ἀμνός (amnos, `{{G283}}`) specifically means "lamb" and carries significant sacrificial and redemptive connotations, particularly in reference to Jesus as the "Lamb of God" ([[John 1:29, 36]]).
* **Goats:** ἔριφος (eriphos, `{{G2055}}`) or ἐρίφιον (eriphion, `{{G2056}}`), meaning "goat," are often contrasted with sheep, particularly in the context of judgment, highlighting different responses to divine grace and command.
* **Pasture:** The concept of "pasture" or "feeding" (νομή, nomē, `{{G3542}}`) is intrinsically linked, representing the spiritual nourishment and guidance provided by the shepherd.
* **Vulnerability and Dependence:** The inherent nature of sheep as defenseless, easily scattered, and reliant on a shepherd for protection, guidance, and provision is a recurring theme, emphasizing humanity's need for divine intervention.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of πρόβατον is profound and multifaceted, primarily serving as a metaphor for humanity's relationship with God:
* **Humanity's Condition:** The depiction of humans as sheep underscores their inherent vulnerability, propensity to wander, and desperate need for a shepherd. Without divine guidance, humanity is "harassed and helpless" ([[Matthew 9:36]]). This highlights the fallen state and dependence of mankind.
* **Christ as the Good Shepherd:** Jesus' self-identification as the "Good Shepherd" is central. It reveals His compassionate nature, His intimate knowledge of His followers, His sacrificial love (laying down His life), and His authority to gather and protect His own ([[John 10:11, 14, 16]]). This imagery assures believers of His constant care and provision.
* **The Church as the Flock:** The community of believers is frequently envisioned as God's flock, under the care of Christ, the Chief Shepherd, and also under the delegated care of human pastors and elders ([[1 Peter 5:2-4]]). This emphasizes unity, mutual care, and submission to spiritual authority.
* **Salvation and Discipleship:** Following the Shepherd implies obedience, trust, and a listening ear to His voice. Salvation is framed as being gathered into His fold, and discipleship involves walking in His paths.
* **Divine Judgment:** The separation of sheep and goats in [[Matthew 25]] serves as a powerful reminder of ultimate accountability and the criteria for entrance into God's eternal kingdom, emphasizing the importance of active, compassionate faith.
### Summary
The Greek term πρόβατον (próbaton, `{{G4263}}`), while literally meaning "sheep," carries immense theological weight in the New Testament. It serves as a primary metaphor for humanity, depicting our vulnerability, propensity to stray, and profound dependence on divine guidance. Most significantly, it illuminates the person and work of Jesus Christ as the "Good Shepherd" who intimately knows, sacrificially loves, and diligently cares for His "sheep"—those who hear His voice and follow Him. This imagery underscores God's compassionate pursuit of the lost, the nature of the Church as His gathered flock, and the ultimate criteria for divine judgment, all pointing to the essential need for Christ's shepherding in the lives of believers.
TRV