### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word τρυγών (trygṓn) `{{G5167}}` refers specifically to the "turtle-dove." Its etymology is rooted in the sound the bird produces, deriving from a verb meaning "to murmur" or "to coo." This onomatopoeic origin highlights the gentle, melancholic vocalizations characteristic of this species, distinguishing it from τρίζω (trizō), which implies a sharper or harsher sound. Semantically, τρυγών holds a precise and narrow meaning, consistently denoting this particular type of dove throughout its usage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word τρυγών `{{G5167}}` appears only once in the New Testament, in [[Luke 2:24]]. This occurrence is found within the narrative of Mary and Joseph bringing the infant Jesus to the Temple in Jerusalem for the rites of purification after childbirth and the dedication of the firstborn son, as prescribed by the Mosaic Law. Specifically, [[Leviticus 12:6-8]] mandates an offering: a lamb for a burnt offering and a young pigeon or a turtledove for a sin offering. However, if the parents could not afford a lamb, the Law permitted them to offer "two turtledoves or two young pigeons" instead. The fact that Mary and Joseph offered "a pair of turtledoves" ([[Luke 2:24]]) signifies their humble economic circumstances, as this was the offering designated for the poor. This detail connects the New Testament narrative directly to Old Testament sacrificial practices, emphasizing the faithful adherence of Jesus' parents to the Law and subtly foreshadowing the profound humility of the Incarnation.
### Related Words & Concepts
The term τρυγών `{{G5167}}` is closely related to περιστερά (peristera) `{{G4058}}`, which is a more general Greek term for "dove" or "pigeon" and appears more frequently in the New Testament (e.g., the dove descending at Jesus' baptism, [[Matthew 3:16]]). In the Old Testament, the Hebrew equivalents for "turtle-dove" are תּוֹר (tor) `{{H8643}}` and for "dove" or "pigeon" is יוֹנָה (yonah) `{{H3123}}`. Both תּוֹר and יוֹנָה are prominent in the Levitical sacrificial system, often mentioned together as acceptable offerings for purification, sin, or burnt offerings, particularly for those of limited means ([[Leviticus 1:14]], [[Leviticus 5:7]], [[Leviticus 12:8]]). Beyond sacrifice, doves also carry symbolic weight in Scripture, often associated with purity, innocence, peace, and the Holy Spirit. The concept of "sacrifice" itself, "purity" or "purification," and the theme of "humility" or "poverty" are intrinsically linked to the biblical use of τρυγών.
### Theological Significance
The single New Testament appearance of τρυγών `{{G5167}}` in [[Luke 2:24]] carries significant theological weight. First, it underscores the **fulfillment of the Law**. Mary and Joseph's offering demonstrates their meticulous obedience to the Mosaic Law, highlighting that Jesus was born "under the law" ([[Galatians 4:4]]), perfectly fulfilling its righteous demands from His earliest days. Second, it powerfully illustrates the **humility of Christ's incarnation**. The Creator of the universe entered humanity in such humble circumstances that His parents could only afford the "poor man's offering." This detail profoundly emphasizes God's condescension, His solidarity with the marginalized, and His rejection of earthly power and wealth in favor of simplicity and service. Third, while the turtle-dove itself is not explicitly symbolic in this context, its association with purification rituals subtly points to the greater **sacrifice of Christ**. The humble offering for ritual cleansing foreshadows the ultimate, perfect sacrifice of Jesus, the Lamb of God, whose blood alone truly purifies from sin and establishes a new covenant.
### Summary
The Greek term τρυγών (trygṓn) `{{G5167}}` precisely identifies the "turtle-dove," named for its characteristic cooing sound. Its sole New Testament appearance in [[Luke 2:24]] is profoundly significant, depicting Mary and Joseph's offering of two turtle-doves for purification after Jesus' birth, in accordance with the Mosaic Law's provision for the poor. This detail not only highlights their faithful adherence to the Law but also powerfully underscores the profound humility of Jesus' earthly beginnings. Theologically, the τρυγών serves as a tangible symbol of the fulfillment of the Old Covenant's requirements, the radical humility of the Incarnation, and God's deep identification with humanity in its need for redemption.
TRV