from a derivative of πέτομαι (meaning a feather); a wing:--wing.
Transliteration:ptéryx
Pronunciation:pter'-oox
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun πτέρυξ (G4420), transliterated as *ptéryx*, fundamentally denotes a "wing." Its etymological root is connected to the concept of "flying" (from a derivative of πέτομαι, *petomai*), and its base meaning can be traced to "a feather," which is the constituent part of a wing. Therefore, the primary semantic range of *ptéryx* encompasses the literal appendage used for flight by birds, insects, or other winged creatures. Beyond this literal sense, particularly when informed by its Hebrew counterpart in the Septuagint (LXX), *ptéryx* extends to a figurative meaning of protection, shelter, covering, or a place of refuge, often implying swiftness or divine care.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the New Testament, *ptéryx* appears five times across three books, each instance carrying significant contextual weight:
* **[[Matthew 23:37]] and [[Luke 13:34]]**: In these parallel passages, Jesus laments over Jerusalem, expressing His desire to gather its inhabitants "as a hen gathers her chicks under her *wings*." This is a poignant and tender metaphor for divine protection, nurture, and provision. The imagery directly echoes numerous Old Testament passages where God is depicted sheltering His people "under His wings" (e.g., [[Psalm 17:8]], [[Psalm 36:7]], [[Psalm 57:1]], [[Psalm 61:4]], [[Psalm 63:7]]), translating the Hebrew *kanaph* `{{H3671}}` with *ptéryx* in the Septuagint. The context here highlights God's unwavering desire to offer refuge, juxtaposed with humanity's rejection of that divine invitation.
* **[[Revelation 4:8]]**: This verse describes the four living creatures around God's throne, each having "six *wings*." Here, *ptéryx* refers to literal wings on celestial beings, emphasizing their majestic appearance, their capacity for swift movement, and their role in divine worship and service. The multiplicity of wings (six) underscores their unique, awe-inspiring, and transcendent nature.
* **[[Revelation 9:9]]**: Describing the demonic locusts emerging from the abyss, the text states that "the sound of their *wings* was like the sound of chariots with many horses rushing into battle." This usage of *ptéryx* is again literal, referring to the wings of these monstrous creatures. The emphasis is on the terrifying and destructive sound they produce, signifying their formidable power and impending judgment.
* **[[Revelation 12:14]]**: In this highly symbolic passage, the woman (representing God's people, often interpreted as Israel or the Church) is given "the two *wings* of the great eagle, so that she might fly into the wilderness." Here, *ptéryx* signifies divine provision for miraculous escape and protection from the dragon's persecution. This imagery strongly recalls God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt, where He bore them "on eagles' wings" ([[Exodus 19:4]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
The understanding of *ptéryx* is greatly enriched by examining its relationship with other biblical terms and theological concepts:
* **Hebrew Equivalents**: The most significant Hebrew counterpart is *kanaph* `{{H3671}}`, which is frequently translated as *ptéryx* in the Septuagint. *Kanaph* encompasses not only literal "wing" but also "extremity," "corner," or "skirt" of a garment. This broader semantic range of *kanaph* informs the protective and sheltering nuance of *ptéryx* in the New Testament, especially in the Psalms and prophetic literature. Another less common Hebrew word for wing is *'ever* `{{H5678}}`, often referring to the pinions or wings of birds.
* **Greek Cognates**: *Ptéryx* is derived from a root related to πέτομαι (*petomai*), "to fly." Other related Greek terms include πτερόν (*pteron*), which also means "feather" or "wing," often used interchangeably with *ptéryx*.
* **Key Concepts**:
* **Divine Protection and Refuge**: The most prominent concept, deeply rooted in the Old Testament and powerfully expressed by Jesus. It speaks of God's intimate, nurturing care and His desire to shield His people from harm.
* **Sovereign Deliverance**: Illustrated by the "eagle's wings" in Revelation, signifying God's supernatural intervention and swift rescue in times of tribulation.
* **Celestial Majesty and Power**: The description of winged heavenly beings in Revelation highlights their transcendent nature, swiftness in divine service, and awe-inspiring presence.
* **Nurturing Parentage**: The image of the hen gathering chicks under her wings evokes a tender, maternal aspect of God's character.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *ptéryx* (G4420) is profound, primarily conveying the tender yet powerful nature of God's relationship with His creation, particularly His people.
1. **God's Nurturing and Protective Care**: The most poignant theological implication stems from Jesus' lament over Jerusalem ([[Matthew 23:37]], [[Luke 13:34]]). His desire to gather them "under His wings" is a vivid, maternal metaphor for God's steadfast love, provision, and refuge. This echoes the Old Testament's portrayal of God as a sheltering eagle ([[Deuteronomy 32:11]]) or a protective bird ([[Psalm 91:4]]). It underscores God's unwavering commitment to shield His people from spiritual and physical dangers, offering a sanctuary of peace and safety amidst chaos. The tragedy lies in the human capacity to reject such divine, life-giving protection.
2. **Divine Deliverance and Escape**: In [[Revelation 12:14]], the "wings of a great eagle" provided to the woman symbolize God's miraculous intervention and swift deliverance for His Church during periods of intense persecution. This imagery reinforces the biblical theme of God as the ultimate rescuer, capable of supernaturally preserving His elect even when surrounded by overwhelming evil. It speaks to divine sovereignty over tribulation and the assurance of ultimate victory for those who trust in Him.
3. **Transcendence and Spiritual Power**: The depiction of celestial beings with multiple wings in Revelation ([[Revelation 4:8]], [[Revelation 9:9]]) points to the awe-inspiring nature of God's heavenly court and the spiritual realm. These wings are not merely for physical flight but signify glory, majesty, swiftness in executing divine will, and a profound otherworldliness. They serve to emphasize the vastness of God's power and the intricate, powerful beings that serve Him.
### Summary
The Greek word πτέρυξ (G4420), *ptéryx*, primarily meaning "wing," carries significant theological weight in the New Testament. While literally describing the appendages of flight, its most profound usage is metaphorical, drawing heavily from Old Testament imagery. It powerfully conveys God's tender, nurturing, and protective care, as seen in Jesus' lament over Jerusalem, where He longed to gather His people "under His wings" ([[Matthew 23:37]], [[Luke 13:34]]). Furthermore, *ptéryx* symbolizes divine provision for miraculous escape and deliverance from tribulation, as depicted by the "wings of a great eagle" in Revelation ([[Revelation 12:14]]). Lastly, its use in describing celestial beings in Revelation ([[Revelation 4:8]], [[Revelation 9:9]]) points to the majesty, power, and transcendent nature of God's heavenly realm. Thus, *ptéryx* encapsulates themes of divine refuge, sovereign intervention, and the awe-inspiring presence of the Creator.
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