### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ptérna**, represented by `{{G4418}}`, refers to the **heel**. It is described as being used figuratively. This word appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its singular appearance highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G4418}}` is found in a statement by Jesus in [[John 13:18]]. The event is presented so "that `{{G2443}}` the scripture `{{G1124}}` may be fulfilled `{{G4137}}`." Jesus describes a close associate turning against him with the words, "He that eateth `{{G5176}}` bread `{{G740}}` with `{{G3326}}` me `{{G1700}}` hath lifted up `{{G1869}}` his `{{G846}}` **heel** `{{G4418}}` against `{{G1909}}` me `{{G1691}}`" [[John 13:18]]. Jesus speaks this after stating, "I `{{G1473}}` know `{{G1492}}` whom `{{G3739}}` I have chosen `{{G1586}}`" [[John 13:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the action associated with **ptérna**:
* `{{G1869}}` **epaírō** (to raise up (literally or figuratively)): This is the direct action taken with the **heel**. This verb can also describe something that "exalteth itself `{{G1869}}` against `{{G2596}}` the knowledge `{{G1108}}` of God `{{G2316}}`" [[2 Corinthians 10:5]].
* `{{G5176}}` **trṓgō** (to gnaw or chew, i.e. (generally) to eat): This word establishes the context of close fellowship that is violated. The one who lifts his **heel** is described as one who "eateth `{{G5176}}` bread `{{G740}}` with `{{G3326}}` me `{{G1700}}`" [[John 13:18]].
* `{{G1124}}` **graphḗ** (a document, i.e. holy Writ (or its contents or a statement in it)): The use of **heel** is explicitly tied to fulfilling prophecy. This same concept is seen when scripture `{{G1124}}` must be fulfilled concerning Judas [[Acts 1:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4418}}` is understood through its singular context:
* **Betrayal from Fellowship:** The lifting of the **heel** `{{G4418}}` is committed by someone who "eateth `{{G5176}}` bread `{{G740}}`" with Jesus [[John 13:18]]. Sharing a meal was a sign of trust, making this act a profound picture of turning against a companion.
* **Prophetic Fulfillment:** The action is stated to occur so "that `{{G2443}}` the scripture `{{G1124}}` may be fulfilled `{{G4137}}`" [[John 13:18]]. This places the personal act of opposition within the context of God's foreknowledge as recorded in holy Writ.
* **Direct Opposition:** The act is directed "against `{{G1909}}` me `{{G1691}}`," signifying a deliberate move against Jesus. The verb used, **epaírō** `{{G1869}}`, is elsewhere associated with exalting oneself against God, highlighting the gravity of the opposition [[2 Corinthians 10:5]].
### Summary
In summary, **ptérna** `{{G4418}}`, though appearing only once, carries significant figurative weight. It symbolizes an act of opposition from a position of trusted fellowship. Its context in [[John 13:18]] firmly links this event to the fulfillment of scripture `{{G1124}}`, demonstrating that this action against Jesus was part of a foreseen plan. The lifting of the **heel** is thus a powerful biblical picture of turning against one with whom bread was shared.
TRV