diminutive of (a sparrow); a little sparrow:--sparrow.
Transliteration:strouthíon
Pronunciation:stroo-thee'-on
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word στρουθίον (strouthíon), `{{G4765}}`, is a diminutive form derived from στρουθός (strouthos), which refers to a sparrow or any small bird. The addition of the diminutive suffix emphasizes the smallness, commonness, and perceived insignificance of the creature. Thus, στρουθίον precisely translates to "little sparrow" or "small bird." Its semantic range is tightly focused on this humble avian creature, often associated with low economic value and ubiquitous presence in ancient Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word στρουθίον (strouthíon) appears exclusively in the Synoptic Gospels, specifically in parallel passages where Jesus teaches about God's meticulous providence.
* In [[Matthew 10:29]] and [[Matthew 10:31]], Jesus states, "Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father." He then assures His disciples, "Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows." The context is Jesus sending out His disciples, warning them of persecution, and encouraging them to rely on God's sovereign care. The "penny" (ἀσσάριον, `{{G78}}`) was a coin of very little value, highlighting the cheapness of the sparrows.
* Similarly, in [[Luke 12:6]] and [[Luke 12:7]], the teaching is reiterated: "Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? And not one of them is forgotten before God." Again, the conclusion is drawn, "Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows." Here, the slightly different economic detail (five for two pennies, implying a "buy one, get one free" scenario for the fifth sparrow) further underscores the birds' minimal worth in human commerce.
In both contexts, the "little sparrow" serves as a powerful illustration of God's comprehensive and detailed knowledge and care. The choice of a diminutive term amplifies the contrast between the creature's apparent insignificance and the Creator's boundless attention.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary conceptual link for στρουθίον (strouthíon) is to the broader biblical theme of **divine providence**. This word, though small, powerfully illustrates God's active and continuous care for all of His creation, from the seemingly least significant to the most complex.
* **στρουθός (strouthos):** While G4765 is the diminutive, understanding the base word for "sparrow" is essential. The focus is on a common, easily overlooked bird.
* **Value and Worth:** The passages inherently contrast the low perceived value of the sparrow in human economic terms with the immense value God places on His human children, particularly His disciples. This concept resonates with other teachings of Jesus, such as the lilies of the field ([[Matthew 6:28-30]]), which are clothed by God with greater splendor than Solomon.
* **Fear and Trust:** The context in which στρουθίον appears is always an exhortation to overcome fear and to place absolute trust in God. The meticulous care for a "little sparrow" serves as an ultimate assurance against anxiety and apprehension.
* **God's Omniscience and Omnipresence:** The fact that not one sparrow falls without God's knowledge points to His perfect and exhaustive awareness of all things, everywhere. This extends to the very hairs of one's head ([[Matthew 10:30]], [[Luke 12:7]]), which are also numbered by God (`{{G2359}}`).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of στρουθίον (strouthíon) is disproportionate to its humble meaning. It serves as a profound testament to several core biblical truths:
1. **God's Meticulous and Universal Providence:** The "little sparrow" illustrates that God's care is not broad and general, but specific, detailed, and extends to every single creature, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant. This underscores God's active involvement in the minute details of His creation.
2. **The Immense Value of Humanity (and Believers):** If God cares so intimately for a common sparrow, how infinitely more does He care for human beings, made in His image, and especially for His redeemed children, for whom Christ died? This truth elevates human dignity and provides a deep sense of personal worth in God's eyes.
3. **A Foundation for Trust and Freedom from Fear:** The primary application of this teaching is an antidote to anxiety and fear. Believers are called to live without dread, knowing that a God who cares for sparrows will certainly care for them. Their lives, trials, and destinies are all held securely within His sovereign and loving hands. This truth empowers disciples to faithfully proclaim the Gospel even in the face of opposition.
4. **God's Omniscience and Omnipotence:** The knowledge of every sparrow's fall implies God's perfect and exhaustive knowledge of all events, past, present, and future. His ability to oversee such minute details speaks to His unlimited power and control over creation.
### Summary
The Greek word στρουθίον (strouthíon, `{{G4765}}`), meaning "little sparrow," is a powerful and poignant term in the New Testament. Though referring to a creature of negligible human value, its use by Jesus profoundly illustrates the comprehensive and meticulous providence of God. Occurring in contexts of encouragement and warning against fear, the "little sparrow" becomes a vivid metaphor for God's active and personal care for His entire creation, extending even to the seemingly insignificant. The theological significance is immense: it affirms God's detailed knowledge, His boundless love for humanity (especially His children), and provides an unshakable foundation for trust, empowering believers to live fearlessly in the face of life's challenges, confident in the unwavering care of their Heavenly Father.
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