from πτύω; a winnowing-fork (as scattering like spittle):--fan.
Transliteration:ptýon
Pronunciation:ptoo'-on
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term `{{G4425}}`, *ptýon* (πτύον), derives from the verb *ptýō* (πτύω), meaning "to spit." This etymological connection is insightful, as it points to the action of scattering or expelling. In its primary agricultural sense, *ptýon* refers to a "winnowing-fork" or "winnowing-shovel." This tool was essential in ancient farming for separating grain from chaff after threshing. The farmer would toss the threshed grain into the air with the *ptýon*, allowing the lighter chaff to be carried away by the wind while the heavier, valuable grain fell back to the threshing floor. The English translation "fan" in some versions accurately conveys its function as an instrument for fanning or separating. Its semantic range is thus narrow, focused almost exclusively on this specific agricultural implement and its symbolic implications.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{G4425}}` appears exclusively in the Synoptic Gospels, specifically in the parallel accounts of John the Baptist's preaching concerning the coming Messiah. It is found in:
* [[Matthew 3:12]]: "His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor, gathering his wheat into the barn and burning up the chaff with unquenchable fire."
* [[Luke 3:17]]: "His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire."
In both instances, the *ptýon* serves as a powerful metaphor in John's prophetic announcement of Jesus' identity and mission. John portrays the Messiah not merely as a gentle savior but also as a decisive judge. The imagery is drawn directly from the agricultural practices familiar to his audience: the threshing floor represents the arena of divine judgment, the "wheat" symbolizes the righteous and faithful, and the "chaff" represents the unrighteous and unrepentant. The *ptýon* is thus the instrument by which this ultimate separation is effected. Its presence in the Messiah's hand signifies His absolute authority and readiness to execute this judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of winnowing and separation is deeply embedded in biblical thought, extending beyond the specific use of `{{G4425}}`. Related Greek terms found in the same contexts include:
* *alōna* (ἄλωνα), "threshing floor," `{{G257}}`, the location where the winnowing occurs.
* *sitos* (σῖτος), "wheat," `{{G4621}}`, representing the valuable, redeemed people.
* *achyron* (ἄχυρον), "chaff," `{{G892}}`, representing the worthless, condemned.
The imagery finds strong parallels in the Old Testament, where the unrighteous are often likened to chaff driven away by the wind (e.g., [[Psalm 1:4]], [[Job 21:18]], [[Isaiah 17:13]], [[Jeremiah 15:7]]). This continuity demonstrates a consistent biblical motif of divine judgment and separation. The concept of judgment itself is central, often associated with purification, accountability, and the establishment of God's righteous kingdom.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *ptýon* is profound, primarily pointing to the eschatological judgment executed by Jesus Christ.
1. **Divine Authority and Judgment:** The winnowing fork in the Messiah's hand unequivocally declares His divine authority to judge humanity. It is not merely a symbolic act but a definitive separation between those who belong to God and those who do not. This underscores the seriousness of repentance and faith in light of God's impending decisive action.
2. **The Nature of Salvation and Condemnation:** The imagery starkly contrasts the destiny of the "wheat" (those gathered into the barn, signifying salvation and inclusion in God's kingdom) and the "chaff" (those burned with unquenchable fire, signifying eternal condemnation). This illustrates the two possible outcomes of human existence in relation to God's holiness and justice.
3. **Christ's Dual Role:** John the Baptist's proclamation highlights Jesus' dual role as both Savior and Judge. While He comes to redeem, He also comes to discern and purify, bringing a necessary and ultimate separation. This challenges any simplistic view of the Messiah that omits His judicial function.
4. **Urgency of Repentance:** The imminence implied by the "fork in His hand" serves as a powerful call to repentance, emphasizing that the time for decision is now, before the decisive separation occurs.
### Summary
The Greek word `{{G4425}}`, *ptýon*, meaning "winnowing-fork," is a potent agricultural metaphor used exclusively by John the Baptist to describe the Messiah's role. Appearing in [[Matthew 3:12]] and [[Luke 3:17]], it symbolizes Christ's divine authority to execute a final, decisive judgment, separating the "wheat" (the righteous) from the "chaff" (the unrighteous). This imagery highlights the stark reality of salvation and condemnation, emphasizing the urgency of repentance and faith in the face of God's ultimate discernment. The *ptýon* thus serves as a powerful reminder of Christ's sovereignty as both Redeemer and Judge over all creation.
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