### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ptēnón**, represented by `{{G4421}}`, is a term for **bird**. It is noted as a contraction for πετεινόν. The word appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, highlighting its specific and limited usage within the biblical text.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G4421}}` is found in a passage that distinguishes between the different types of created beings. The text states that not all flesh is the same, listing the flesh of men, beasts, fishes, and finally **birds** [[1 Corinthians 15:39]]. In this context, **ptēnón** serves to categorize a specific class of animal life as distinct from other forms, illustrating the diversity in the physical world.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words used alongside `{{G4421}}` in its only appearance help to clarify its meaning by contrast:
* `{{G444}}` **ánthrōpos** (man): This word refers to a human being and is used to establish the first category of flesh, that of **men**, which is set apart from the animal kingdom [[1 Corinthians 15:39]].
* `{{G2934}}` **ktēnos** (beast): Defined as a domestic animal, this term is used to describe the second category of flesh, distinguishing land animals from humans and other creatures [[1 Corinthians 15:39]].
* `{{G2486}}` **ichthýs** (fish): This term for fish is used to delineate the third type of flesh, that of aquatic life, immediately before the final mention of **birds** [[1 Corinthians 15:39]].
* `{{G243}}` **állos** (another): This word, meaning different or another, is repeated in the passage to emphasize the distinction between each category of flesh, including that of **birds** [[1 Corinthians 15:39]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4421}}` is derived entirely from its contextual function within the argument for the resurrection.
* **Distinction in Creation:** The primary theological contribution of `{{G4421}}` is its role in illustrating the diversity of God's creation. By being listed as a separate category of "flesh," it reinforces the principle that God created life with specific and distinct natures [[1 Corinthians 15:39]].
* **Foundation for Analogy:** The verse uses the distinct types of flesh—for men, beasts, fishes, and **birds**—as an analogy to explain the difference between the mortal body and the resurrected body. The existence of **birds** as a unique form of life helps establish the foundation for the argument that different kinds of bodies exist, making the concept of a glorified body more understandable.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4421}}` **ptēnón** is a specific term for **bird** whose single biblical appearance serves a distinct illustrative purpose. It is used not to discuss the nature of birds themselves, but to function as one part of a list that highlights the diversity within God's creation. This categorization of different "flesh" for **men**, **beasts**, **fishes**, and **birds** provides a tangible analogy for the Apostle Paul's theological argument regarding the nature of resurrection bodies [[1 Corinthians 15:39]].
TRV