neuter of a presumed derivative of πτέρυξ; a winglet, i.e. (figuratively) extremity (top corner):--pinnacle.
Transliteration:pterýgion
Pronunciation:pter-oog'-ee-on
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term πτερύγιον (pterýgion, `{{G4419}}`) is a diminutive of πτέρυξ (ptéryx, `{{G4420}}`), meaning "wing." As a diminutive, πτερύγιον literally signifies a "little wing" or "winglet." However, its semantic range extends beyond this literal avian sense to denote an "extremity," "edge," or "projection." In its sole biblical occurrences, it is used metonymically to refer to a specific architectural feature: the "pinnacle" or highest, projecting point of a building. This usage highlights a sharp, prominent, and often elevated architectural extension, distinct from the broader structure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word πτερύγιον appears exclusively in the New Testament within the accounts of Jesus's temptation in the wilderness, specifically when Satan leads Him to Jerusalem.
* [[Matthew 4:5]]: "Then the devil took him to the holy city and set him on the highest point of the temple."
* [[Luke 4:9]]: "Then the devil led him to Jerusalem and had him stand on the highest point of the temple."
In both instances, the phrase "on the highest point of the temple" (ἐπὶ τὸ πτερύγιον τοῦ ἱεροῦ) refers to a prominent, elevated part of the Jerusalem Temple complex. While the exact location is debated among scholars (perhaps the southeast corner overlooking the Kidron Valley, or a high point of the inner sanctuary), the context clearly implies a perilous height. Satan's intent in placing Jesus on this πτερύγιον was to tempt Him to perform a miraculous, public display of divine protection by casting Himself down, citing [[Psalm 91:11-12]]. Jesus's response, "You shall not put the Lord your God to the test" ([[Matthew 4:7]], [[Luke 4:12]]), quoting [[Deuteronomy 6:16]], underscores His obedience and refusal to manipulate divine power for personal validation or spectacle. The choice of this specific architectural feature emphasizes the public nature of the proposed act and the dramatic potential of the fall, serving as a stage for a profound spiritual confrontation.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is πτέρυξ (ptéryx, `{{G4420}}`), the base word for "wing." The diminutive πτερύγιον suggests a smaller, more defined, or perhaps isolated projection compared to a full wing. The concept of the "Temple" (ἱερόν, hieron, `{{G2411}}`) is inextricably linked, as the πτερύγιον is specifically identified as belonging to this sacred structure. This context highlights the audacity of Satan's temptation within the very precinct dedicated to God. The temptation narrative itself involves concepts such as "testing" (πειράζω, peirazō, `{{G3985}}`), "faith" (πίστις, pistis, `{{G4102}}`), and "divine protection" (σκιάζω, skiazō, `{{G4637}}`, from the imagery of God's shadow/wing). The πτερύγιον serves as the literal high point for a spiritual low point of temptation.
### Theological Significance
The πτερύγιον holds profound theological significance as the physical locus of a pivotal spiritual battle. Its elevated position symbolizes the public and dramatic nature of the temptation Satan presented to Jesus. By placing Jesus on the πτερύγιον of the Temple, Satan sought to exploit Jesus's divine identity and the expectations surrounding the Messiah. The temptation to cast Himself down from this height was a challenge to trust God in an unrighteous manner, demanding a miraculous intervention as proof, rather than resting in obedient faith. Jesus's refusal to succumb demonstrates His perfect humanity and divinity, His unwavering trust in God's will, and His rejection of any path to messianic glory that bypasses the Father's ordained way. The πτερύγιον thus becomes a symbol of the ultimate test of obedience and reliance on God's Word, even when faced with the most audacious and seemingly advantageous temptations. It underscores that true faith does not put God to the test but rather trusts in His sovereign provision and timing.
### Summary
Πτερύγιον (pterýgion, `{{G4419}}`), a diminutive of "wing," uniquely denotes a "pinnacle" or high, projecting architectural feature in the New Testament. Its sole occurrences in [[Matthew 4:5]] and [[Luke 4:9]] place it as the specific location on the Jerusalem Temple where Satan tempted Jesus to cast Himself down. This πτερύγιον serves as a potent symbol of the dramatic and public nature of the temptation, challenging Jesus to prove His divine Sonship by demanding a miraculous intervention. The theological significance lies in Jesus's steadfast refusal to put God to the test, demonstrating perfect obedience, humility, and reliance on Scripture, thereby setting a paradigm for faithful endurance against temptation.
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