apparently a primary word; a "foal" or "filly", i.e. (specially), a young ass:--colt.
Transliteration:pōlos
Pronunciation:po'-los
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word πῶλος (pōlos, `{{G4454}}`) fundamentally denotes a "foal" or "young animal." While it can refer to the young of various animals, including horses, its specific usage in the New Testament, as indicated by the base definition, narrows its meaning to a "young ass" or "colt." This refers to an animal that is typically unbroken, meaning it has not yet been ridden or trained for work. The term thus carries connotations of youth, inexperience, and a certain untamed quality.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of πῶλος (pōlos, `{{G4454}}`) in the New Testament are exclusively found within the Synoptic Gospel accounts of Jesus' Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem.
* In [[Matthew 21:2]], [[Mark 11:2]], and [[Luke 19:30]], Jesus specifically instructs His disciples to find a πῶλος tied, upon which no one has ever sat. This detail is crucial, emphasizing the animal's virgin state and setting it apart for a unique, sacred purpose.
* Matthew's account [[Matthew 21:7]] uniquely mentions both a donkey (ὄνος, `{{G3688}}`) and a colt (πῶλος) being brought, directly linking the event to the prophecy of [[Zechariah 9:9]]. The bringing of both animals, though Jesus rides only the colt, underscores the precise fulfillment of the prophetic text.
* The context consistently portrays the πῶλος as the chosen mount for Jesus' entrance into the holy city. The fact that it is an unbroken animal, yet Jesus rides it without incident, subtly highlights His divine authority and control, even over the natural world. The immediate availability of the πῶλος also speaks to divine providence orchestrating the events.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **ὄνος (onos, `{{G3688}}`):** This is the more general Greek term for "donkey" or "ass." In Matthew's Gospel, πῶλος is used in conjunction with ὄνος to specify that the colt is indeed a young donkey, clarifying the prophetic reference.
* **Prophecy (Zechariah 9:9):** The use of πῶλος is inextricably linked to the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. [[Zechariah 9:9]] foretells the coming of Zion's King, "humble and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey." The specific mention of a "colt" (often translated from Hebrew as a young male donkey) in Zechariah makes the choice of πῶλος profoundly significant.
* **Messianic Kingship:** The imagery of a king riding on a πῶλος contrasts sharply with the typical portrayal of conquering kings on warhorses. This choice signals a different kind of kingship—one of humility, peace, and spiritual authority, rather than worldly power or military might.
* **Consecration:** The detail that "no one has ever sat on it" echoes the concept of something being set apart or consecrated for divine use, much like an unblemished animal designated for sacrifice (cf. Numbers 19:2 regarding a red heifer upon which "no yoke has ever come").
### Theological Significance
The πῶλος (pōlos, `{{G4454}}`) holds profound theological significance within the narrative of Jesus' Triumphal Entry.
* **Prophetic Fulfillment:** Its primary theological weight lies in its direct and explicit fulfillment of the prophecy in [[Zechariah 9:9]]. This event serves as a powerful demonstration that Jesus is indeed the long-awaited Messiah, acting according to God's predetermined plan. It validates His claims and mission.
* **Revelation of Kingship:** The choice of a humble πῶλος over a warhorse reveals the true nature of Jesus' kingship. He enters Jerusalem not as a worldly conqueror but as the Prince of Peace, whose kingdom is not of this world [[John 18:36]]. This act subverts human expectations of a powerful, earthly deliverer, instead presenting a King characterized by humility, service, and spiritual authority.
* **Divine Authority and Sovereignty:** Jesus' command to retrieve the πῶλος, His knowledge of its location, and the fact that it is an unbroken animal yet submits to Him, all underscore His divine authority and sovereignty. He is Lord over creation and human circumstances, orchestrating events to fulfill His redemptive purpose.
* **Symbol of Purity and Dedication:** The fact that the πῶλος had never been ridden signifies its purity and consecration for a sacred purpose. This implicitly connects to Jesus' own purity and His dedication as the unblemished Lamb of God, set apart for the ultimate sacrifice.
### Summary
The Greek word πῶλος (pōlos, `{{G4454}}`) refers to a "colt" or "young ass," specifically one that has never been ridden. Its crucial role in the New Testament is found in the accounts of Jesus' Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem, where it serves as His chosen mount. This choice is deeply significant, primarily because it directly fulfills the prophecy of [[Zechariah 9:9]], unequivocally identifying Jesus as the promised Messiah. The πῶλος symbolizes Jesus' humble and peaceful kingship, contrasting sharply with worldly notions of power. Furthermore, the detail that the animal was unbroken yet submitted to Jesus highlights His divine authority and sovereignty. Ultimately, the πῶλος stands as a powerful symbol of prophetic fulfillment, messianic identity, and the unique, consecrated nature of Jesus' mission as the Prince of Peace.
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