### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hypozýgion**, represented by `{{G5268}}`, refers to an **animal under the yoke** (draught-beast), specifically a **donkey** or **ass**. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is derived from a compound of ὑπό and ζυγός, literally meaning an animal that is placed under a yoke.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G5268}}` appears in two distinct contexts. First, it is used in the prophecy concerning the arrival of the King to the daughter of Sion, describing him as **meek** and sitting on a colt, the foal of an **ass** [[Matthew 21:5]]. Second, it is found in the account where a prophet was rebuked for his **iniquity** when the "dumb **ass**" spoke with a man's voice to forbid his **madness** [[2 Peter 2:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the role of `{{G5268}}`:
* `{{G3688}}` **ónos** (an ass): This word for donkey is used in parallel with `{{G5268}}` in the description of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem [[Matthew 21:5]].
* `{{G880}}` **áphōnos** (dumb): This describes the natural state of the **ass** before it miraculously speaks, emphasizing its voicelessness [[2 Peter 2:16]].
* `{{G1649}}` **élenxis** (rebuke): The miraculous speech of the **ass** `{{G5268}}` is the means of **rebuke** against the prophet's transgression [[2 Peter 2:16]].
* `{{G5456}}` **phōnḗ** (voice): This word is used for the "man's **voice**" that the dumb ass was given, highlighting the supernatural nature of the event [[2 Peter 2:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5268}}` is demonstrated in its two appearances:
* **Prophetic Humility:** The word is used to fulfill a prophecy where the King's arrival is marked by meekness. His choice of an **ass** signifies a humble and peaceful entry to Sion, contrasting with a conquering king on a warhorse [[Matthew 21:5]].
* **Divine Intervention:** In a striking display of God's sovereignty, an `{{G5268}}` becomes the instrument of divine correction. A creature that is **dumb** `{{G880}}` is given a voice to forbid the **madness** of a prophet, showing that God can use any part of His creation to rebuke **iniquity** [[2 Peter 2:16]].
### Summary
In summary, though used only twice, `{{G5268}}` is a significant term. It defines an animal central to two important narratives: the humble arrival of the King to Sion and the supernatural rebuke of a wayward prophet. Through this simple term for a draught-beast, scripture illustrates profound themes of meekness, fulfilled prophecy, and God's power to intervene in extraordinary ways.
TRV