probably akin to (to spread; and thus apparently allied to πέτομαι through the idea of expansion, and to 4429 through that of flattening; compare πατέω); to fold, i.e. furl a scroll:--close.
Transliteration:ptýssō
Pronunciation:ptoos'-so
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb πτύσσω (ptýssō, `{{G4428}}`) fundamentally means "to fold" or "to furl." Its primary application, as indicated by its base definition, is the action of rolling up a scroll. This specific meaning implies a movement that brings together the edges or surfaces of an object, thereby "closing" it. The etymological notes suggest connections to words signifying "to spread" (akin to the root of πέτομαι, `{{G4072}}`, "to fly, spread out") and "to flatten" (related to πτύον, `{{G4429}}`, a winnowing shovel, and πατέω, `{{G3961}}`, "to tread"). This linguistic lineage points to an action performed upon a surface, either unfolding or, in the case of πτύσσω, folding it back upon itself. The English gloss "close" captures the resultant state of the object after the action of folding or furling is completed.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb πτύσσω (ptýssō, `{{G4428}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, making its single occurrence particularly significant for understanding its biblical usage.
* **[[Luke 4:20]]**: "And he closed the book, and gave it again to the minister, and sat down: and the eyes of all them that were in the synagogue were fastened on him."
This sole instance occurs within the narrative of Jesus' visit to the synagogue in Nazareth. Having just read a passage from the scroll of the prophet Isaiah (specifically, [[Isaiah 61:1-2]]), Jesus performs the physical act of "closing" (ἔπτυξεν, aorist indicative of πτύσσω) the scroll. This action immediately precedes His profound declaration that the scripture He had just read was fulfilled in their hearing that day. The context is highly specific: Jesus has just proclaimed His messianic mission, quoting a pivotal prophetic text, and then physically rolls up the scroll, signifying the completion of the reading and a transition to His subsequent teaching. The act is both practical, returning the scroll to its proper state, and deeply symbolic, marking a moment of transition and fulfillment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of πτύσσω (ptýssō, `{{G4428}}`) includes actions related to manipulation of surfaces and texts.
* **πέτομαι (petomai, `{{G4072}}`)**: "to fly," implying expansion or spreading out. This stands in conceptual contrast to "folding" but highlights the dynamic interaction with a surface.
* **πτύον (ptyon, `{{G4429}}`)**: "a winnowing shovel," a tool used to separate grain, often by a sweeping or flattening motion. This connection suggests an underlying idea of engaging with a flat or spread-out surface.
* **πατέω (pateō, `{{G3961}}`)**: "to tread" or "to trample," again indicating interaction with a surface, often with pressure or flattening.
* **βιβλίον (biblion, `{{G976}}`)**: "a scroll" or "book," the object upon which the action of πτύσσω is performed in [[Luke 4:20]]. This highlights the ancient practice of using scrolls for sacred texts, which required specific actions for opening and closing.
* **ἀναγινώσκω (anaginōskō, `{{G314}}`)**: "to read," the preceding action performed by Jesus before closing the scroll.
The act of closing a scroll in the ancient world was a common, practical action, but in the biblical narrative, it becomes charged with deeper meaning, particularly when performed by Jesus in such a pivotal moment.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of πτύσσω (ptýssō, `{{G4428}}`) in [[Luke 4:20]] carries profound theological weight. Jesus' act of "closing" the scroll of Isaiah immediately after proclaiming the fulfillment of prophecy in Himself is more than a mere physical action; it is deeply symbolic:
1. **Fulfillment and Finality**: By closing the scroll, Jesus signals that the era of prophecy *as mere expectation* is concluded. The words of Isaiah are not just read; they are embodied and fulfilled in His person and ministry. The act of closing signifies a divine "amen" to the prophetic word, indicating that its time has come.
2. **Authority and Transition**: The closing of the scroll marks a transition from the reading of the written word to the authoritative exposition and embodiment of that word by Jesus Himself. He sits down, a posture of teaching, indicating that the revelation will now proceed not just from the text, but from His very being and spoken teaching.
3. **The New Covenant**: The closing of the Old Testament scroll can be seen as a symbolic act anticipating the transition from the Old Covenant, characterized by written law and prophecy, to the New Covenant, inaugurated by Christ, where the Law is written on hearts and prophecy finds its ultimate realization.
4. **Order and Reverence**: Despite the profound theological implications, the act is also one of humility and adherence to synagogue custom. Jesus respectfully returns the sacred text to the attendant, demonstrating reverence for the scriptures and the established order, even as He transcends and fulfills them.
### Summary
The Greek verb πτύσσω (ptýssō, `{{G4428}}`) literally means "to fold" or "to furl," specifically referring to the action of rolling up a scroll. Its sole occurrence in the New Testament, in [[Luke 4:20]], depicts Jesus "closing" the scroll of Isaiah after reading from it in the synagogue at Nazareth. This seemingly simple physical act is imbued with profound theological significance. It symbolizes the fulfillment and finality of Old Testament prophecy in Jesus, marking a pivotal transition from the era of expectation to the era of Christ's active ministry. The closing of the scroll underscores Jesus' authority, the inauguration of a new covenant, and His reverence for the sacred text, even as He declares its ultimate realization in Himself.
TRV