### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun ἄγκιστρον (ánkistron) `{{G44}}` carries a singular and precise meaning: "a hook." Its etymological root is found in ἀγκάλη (ankálē), a word referring to the bent arm or an embrace, which aptly describes the curved nature inherent in a hook. Thus, ánkistron denotes a physical implement characterized by its bent or curved shape, designed primarily for catching or holding. In the biblical context, its semantic range is narrowly confined to this literal understanding, most notably in the context of fishing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἄγκιστρον (ánkistron) `{{G44}}` appears only once in the New Testament, in a passage of significant theological import:
* **[[Matthew 17:27]]**: "Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee."
In this sole occurrence, the word is employed in its most straightforward and literal sense, referring to a fishing hook. Jesus instructs Peter to use this common tool to catch a fish, from which a coin miraculously appears to pay the temple tax. The context is entirely pragmatic, yet it serves as the instrument for a divine demonstration. The mundane object (the hook) becomes part of a supernatural event, underscoring the Lord's omniscient knowledge and His power over creation, even in the smallest details. The focus of the narrative is not on the hook itself, but on the miraculous provision it facilitates.
### Related Words & Concepts
The etymological connection of ἄγκιστρον `{{G44}}` to ἀγκάλη (ankálē), signifying "the bent arm" or "embrace," reinforces its core meaning of something curved or bent. While ánkistron refers specifically to a fishing hook, it is naturally associated with broader concepts of fishing and divine provision.
Related concepts include:
* **Fishing:** Other terms for fishing implements or activities, such as δίκτυον (díktyon - net), σαγήνη (sagēnē - dragnet), and ἁλιεύς (halieús - fisherman), are more frequently encountered in the Gospels. The use of a hook, rather than a net, in [[Matthew 17:27]] might subtly emphasize a singular, precise act of divine intervention rather than a broad, sweeping catch.
* **Tools/Implements:** As a tool, ánkistron falls under the general category of instruments used for specific tasks.
* **Divine Provision:** The context of [[Matthew 17:27]] inextricably links the hook to God's miraculous care and provision for His Son and disciples, demonstrating His ability to meet needs in extraordinary ways, even through ordinary means.
### Theological Significance
Despite its singular and literal occurrence, the theological significance of ἄγκιστρον `{{G44}}` is profound due to its context in [[Matthew 17:27]]. The fishing hook, a simple, everyday object, becomes the instrument of a pivotal miracle that illuminates several key theological truths:
* **Jesus' Divine Authority and Omniscience:** The command to Peter to "cast an hook" and find a coin in the mouth of the first fish demonstrates Jesus' absolute knowledge of the natural world and His sovereign control over it. He knows the exact location of the fish and the coin, showcasing His divine nature.
* **Humility and Obedience:** Jesus, the Son of God, instructs Peter to pay the temple tax, not out of obligation but "lest we should offend them." The use of the hook in this miraculous provision underscores Jesus' willingness to conform to human customs and avoid causing stumbling, even while asserting His divine Sonship.
* **God's Providential Care:** The event highlights God's faithful and miraculous provision for His people. It reassures believers that God is able to meet their needs, even through unconventional and extraordinary means, using the most ordinary of tools.
* **Faith and Action:** Peter's act of casting the hook represents an act of obedient faith. The miracle unfolds not in passive waiting, but in active response to Jesus' command, demonstrating that God often works through human instrumentality.
### Summary
ἄγκιστρον (ánkistron) `{{G44}}` is a Greek noun meaning "a hook," derived from a root indicating something "bent" or "curved." Its sole appearance in the New Testament is in [[Matthew 17:27]], where it refers to the fishing hook used by Peter at Jesus' instruction to miraculously obtain a coin from a fish. While a simple, literal term for a common implement, its context is rich with theological significance. The hook serves as a tangible instrument in a miracle that powerfully demonstrates Jesus' divine knowledge, His authority over creation, His humility in avoiding offense, and the extraordinary nature of God's providential care for His people, often manifested through ordinary means in response to obedient faith.
TRV