from the alternate of πίπτω; a crash, i.e. downfall (literally or figuratively):--fall.
Transliteration:ptōsis
Pronunciation:pto'-sis
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun πτῶσις (ptōsis, `{{G4431}}`) is derived from the verb πίπτω (piptō, `{{G4098}}`), meaning "to fall." As a noun, πτῶσις denotes the *act* or *result* of falling. Its core meaning encompasses a "crash" or "downfall." The semantic range extends from a literal, physical collapse to a figurative, spiritual, or moral ruin. It can signify:
* **Physical collapse or ruin:** The literal falling of a structure, leading to its destruction.
* **Spiritual or moral downfall:** A state of ruin, judgment, or condemnation brought about by rejection or unfaithfulness.
* **Overthrow or defeat:** Though not explicitly used in this sense in the New Testament, the broader Greek usage of the root verb πίπτω can imply a fall from power or status.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term πτῶσις appears twice in the New Testament, each instance carrying significant weight:
* **[[Matthew 7:27]]**: "And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the **fall** of it."
* Here, πτῶσις is used in a literal sense, describing the catastrophic collapse of a house built on sand. This verse concludes Jesus' parable of the two builders, emphasizing the inevitable and complete destruction that befalls those who hear His words but do not put them into practice. The "great fall" underscores the utter ruin and lack of stability for a life not founded on the solid rock of Christ's teaching.
* **[[Luke 2:34]]**: "And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary their mother, Behold, this child is set for the **fall** and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against."
* In this prophetic declaration by Simeon, πτῶσις takes on a profound theological and spiritual meaning. Jesus is presented as appointed by God to be a catalyst for a "fall" (downfall or judgment) for some, and a "rising again" (ἀνάστασις, anastasis, `{{G386}}`) for others in Israel. This "fall" is not a moral failing caused by Christ, but rather the consequence of individuals' response to Him. For those who reject Him, His advent serves as a revelation of their spiritual state, leading to their condemnation or spiritual ruin. It highlights the divisive nature of the Gospel and the sifting effect of Christ's presence.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **πίπτω (piptō, `{{G4098}}`):** The verb from which πτῶσις is derived. It means "to fall," "to fall down," "to perish," or "to be overthrown." Its various applications (physical, moral, spiritual) inform the nuances of πτῶσις.
* **ἀνάστασις (anastasis, `{{G386}}`):** "Resurrection," "rising again." This word stands in direct antithesis to πτῶσις in [[Luke 2:34]], highlighting the dual outcome of Christ's mission – either spiritual elevation or spiritual ruin.
* **σκάνδαλον (skandalon, `{{G4625}}`):** "Stumbling block," "offense." While πτῶσις is the *result* of a fall, σκάνδαλον is often the *cause* of a spiritual stumble or fall. Jesus Himself is referred to as a "stumbling block" for those who do not believe (e.g., [[Romans 9:33]], [[1 Peter 2:8]]), which can lead to their πτῶσις.
* **Concepts:** Judgment, ruin, destruction, spiritual sifting, moral decline, divine revelation, and the consequences of one's spiritual foundation.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of πτῶσις is multifaceted:
* **Divine Judgment and Consequences:** In both occurrences, πτῶσις speaks to a definitive outcome, often one of judgment or ruin. In [[Matthew 7:27]], it underscores the severe consequences of spiritual disobedience and a superficial faith. The "great fall" serves as a stark warning about the inevitable collapse of a life not built on the solid foundation of Christ's teachings.
* **Christ as a Catalyst for Revelation and Division:** [[Luke 2:34]] profoundly reveals Christ's role in human destiny. His coming is not universally embraced; rather, it serves as a divine plumb line, exposing the true spiritual condition of individuals. For those who reject Him, His presence leads to their spiritual πτῶσις – a downfall that is a consequence of their unbelief and resistance to God's redemptive plan. This highlights the inherent division Christ brings: He is either a stumbling block leading to ruin or the cornerstone leading to salvation.
* **The Radical Nature of the Gospel:** The pairing of πτῶσις and ἀνάστασις in Simeon's prophecy encapsulates the radical and transformative nature of the Gospel. It demands a response that leads to either spiritual elevation or spiritual condemnation. There is no neutral ground; one's encounter with Christ inevitably leads to one of these two ultimate outcomes.
### Summary
The Greek word πτῶσις (ptōsis, `{{G4431}}`) signifies a "fall" or "downfall," encompassing both literal collapse and profound spiritual ruin. In [[Matthew 7:27]], it vividly describes the catastrophic πτῶσις of a house built on an unstable foundation, serving as a powerful metaphor for the inevitable ruin of a life not genuinely grounded in Christ's teachings. More significantly, in [[Luke 2:34]], πτῶσις takes on a deep theological meaning, portraying Jesus as appointed by God for the spiritual downfall or judgment of many in Israel, alongside their rising. This prophetic declaration underscores Christ's role in revealing the true spiritual state of individuals, leading to either salvation or condemnation based on their response to Him. Thus, πτῶσις encapsulates themes of divine judgment, the critical importance of one's spiritual foundation, and the divisive, yet ultimately salvific, nature of Christ's mission.
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