from the base of ἵστημι; a stake or post (as set upright), i.e. (specially), a pole or cross (as an instrument of capital punishment); figuratively, exposure to death, i.e. self-denial; by implication, the atonement of Christ:--cross.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **staurós**, represented by `{{G4716}}`, translates as **cross**. It appears **28 times** across **28 unique verses** in the Bible. Its base definition is a stake or post set upright, specifically a pole or cross used for capital punishment. Figuratively, it signifies self-denial and, by implication, the atonement of Christ.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4716}}` is used in two primary contexts. It refers to the literal wooden instrument of Christ's execution, which He was forced to bear `{{G941}}` on the way to His crucifixion [[John 19:17]] and upon which a title was written and placed by Pilate [[John 19:19]]. The term is also used figuratively to represent the call to discipleship, which requires a believer to deny `{{G533}}` themself, take up `{{G142}}` their **cross** daily, and follow `{{G190}}` Christ [[Luke 9:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller understanding of the **cross** and its implications:
* `{{G4717}}` **stauróō** (crucify): As the verb form of **staurós**, this means to impale on the cross. It is used to describe how the world has been **crucified** to the believer, and the believer to the world, through the **cross** of Christ [[Galatians 6:14]].
* `{{G4957}}` **systauróō** (crucify with): This word means to impale in company with. It conveys the believer's spiritual union with Christ in His death, as expressed in the statement "I am **crucified with** Christ" [[Galatians 2:20]].
* `{{G142}}` **aírō** (to take up or away): This verb is frequently used in Christ's call to discipleship, instructing followers that they must **take up** their **cross** to follow Him [[Matthew 16:24]]. It is also used to describe how Jesus, the Lamb of God, **taketh away** the sin of the world [[John 1:29]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4716}}` is central to Christian doctrine. It represents several key truths:
* **Atonement and Reconciliation:** The **cross** is the means by which God enacted His plan of redemption. Through the blood of His **cross**, Christ made peace `{{G1517}}`, reconciling `{{G604}}` all things to Himself and slaying the enmity `{{G2189}}` between God and humanity ([[Colossians 1:20]], [[Ephesians 2:16]]).
* **The Power of God:** While the preaching `{{G3056}}` of the **cross** is seen as foolishness to those who are perishing, for believers it is the very power `{{G1411}}` of God unto salvation [[1 Corinthians 1:18]].
* **Christ's Obedience and Humiliation:** Christ humbled `{{G5013}}` Himself and became obedient `{{G5255}}` to the point of death, even the "death of the **cross**" [[Philippians 2:8]]. He endured `{{G5278}}` the **cross**, despising `{{G2706}}` its shame for the joy set before Him [[Hebrews 12:2]].
* **The Believer's Identity:** The **cross** is not only an event in history but also a present reality for believers. Those who belong to Christ have crucified `{{G4717}}` the flesh with its passions and lusts [[Galatians 5:24]], and there is an "offence `{{G4625}}` of the **cross**" that may lead to persecution [[Galatians 5:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4716}}` is a word that encompasses the physical reality of Christ's suffering and the profound spiritual truths of the Christian faith. It stands as the ultimate symbol of God's redemptive plan, representing the intersection of divine power and human humiliation, the instrument of atonement, and the defining mark of a disciple's commitment to self-denial and obedience.
TRV