### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term `{{G5268}}` (hypozýgion) is a compound word derived from `{{G5259}}` (hypó), meaning "under," and `{{G2218}}` (zygós), meaning "yoke." Literally, it signifies "that which is under a yoke," thus referring to a beast of burden or a draught-animal. While its base meaning is broad, encompassing any animal used for labor under a yoke, its specialized usage in the New Testament, as in classical Greek, refers specifically to a donkey or an ass. This particular term emphasizes the animal's function and utility as a working creature, often associated with humility and common use, rather than a more general zoological classification like `{{G3688}}` (ónos), which simply means "donkey." The semantic range is therefore narrow, primarily denoting a donkey used for carrying burdens or riding.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{G5268}}` appears twice in the New Testament, each instance carrying profound contextual significance:
1. **[[Matthew 21:5]]**: "Tell the daughter of Zion, 'Behold, your King is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey, and on a colt, the foal of a `{{G5268}}`.'"
* Here, `{{G5268}}` is used in direct fulfillment of the prophecy from [[Zechariah 9:9]]. The choice of a donkey, a humble beast of burden, rather than a warhorse, profoundly communicates the nature of Jesus' kingship. It signifies a Messiah who comes in peace, humility, and service, rather than one who conquers through military might. The imagery contrasts sharply with conventional expectations of royal entry, underscoring the spiritual and redemptive nature of His kingdom. The fact that it is a "foal of a `{{G5268}}`" further emphasizes its youth and perhaps its untouched status, fitting for a sacred purpose.
2. **[[2 Peter 2:16]]**: "but was rebuked for his iniquity; a speechless `{{G5268}}` spoke with a human voice and restrained the prophet's madness."
* This verse references the Old Testament account of Balaam and his donkey in [[Numbers 22]]. The `{{G5268}}` here is the instrument through which God directly intervenes to prevent Balaam from cursing Israel. The "speechless `{{G5268}}`" (ἄφωνον ὑποζύγιον) serves as a stark and ironic contrast to Balaam, the supposed prophet, highlighting his moral blindness and "madness" (παραφρονία). God uses the most humble and unexpected of creatures to speak truth and rebuke sin, demonstrating His absolute sovereignty and His ability to expose the folly of those who rebel against His will.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several terms and concepts are closely related to `{{G5268}}`:
* **`{{G5259}}` (hypó)**: The prefix "under," which denotes submission, humility, or being beneath something. This resonates with the humble nature of the animal and its role in service.
* **`{{G2218}}` (zygós)**: "Yoke," a wooden frame joining two animals for drawing a plow or cart, also metaphorically a burden or servitude. In the context of the `{{G5268}}`, it highlights the animal's life of labor. Interestingly, Jesus speaks of His "easy yoke" ([[Matthew 11:30]]), contrasting with the heavy burdens of the Law or human tradition.
* **`{{G3688}}` (ónos)**: The more common Greek word for "donkey" or "ass." While `{{G3688}}` is a general term, `{{G5268}}` specifically describes its function as a beast of burden. The use of `{{G5268}}` in [[Matthew 21:5]] might subtly emphasize the functional humility of the animal, fitting for the King's entry.
* **Old Testament Parallels**: The significance of the donkey in biblical narrative is deep-rooted. Besides [[Zechariah 9:9]] and [[Numbers 22]], donkeys are frequently mentioned as means of transport for patriarchs ([[Genesis 22:3]]), prophets ([[1 Kings 13:13]]), and even Moses' family ([[Exodus 4:20]]). They symbolize peace, humility, and common life, distinct from horses which often represented warfare and power.
### Theological Significance
The appearances of `{{G5268}}` carry profound theological weight:
1. **Messianic Humility and Peaceful Kingship**: In [[Matthew 21:5]], the `{{G5268}}` is central to understanding Jesus' self-presentation as Messiah. His choice to ride a donkey, rather than a warhorse, deliberately fulfills prophecy and underscores His kingdom's nature: it is not of this world, not built on military might or earthly power, but on humility, peace, and spiritual authority. This act subverts worldly expectations of a conquering king, revealing the true character of God's reign as one of service and self-sacrifice. It is a powerful visual sermon on the Beatitudes, embodying meekness and peacemaking.
2. **Divine Sovereignty and Rebuke of Folly**: The episode of Balaam's `{{G5268}}` in [[2 Peter 2:16]] serves as a stark reminder of God's absolute sovereignty and His ability to use the most unexpected and seemingly insignificant means to accomplish His will. The "speechless `{{G5268}}`" speaking with a human voice to rebuke a prophet highlights the irrationality and spiritual blindness of those who, like Balaam, pursue their own gain over God's truth. It underscores that God can even use creation itself to expose human rebellion and uphold divine justice, demonstrating that no one is beyond His reach or His judgment.
### Summary
The Greek word `{{G5268}}` (hypozýgion), meaning "beast under the yoke" and specifically "donkey" or "ass," appears twice in the New Testament, each instance rich with theological significance. In [[Matthew 21:5]], it portrays Jesus' humble and peaceful entry into Jerusalem, fulfilling ancient prophecy and revealing the true nature of His Messianic kingship, characterized by humility and service rather than worldly power. In [[2 Peter 2:16]], the `{{G5268}}` serves as a powerful symbol of divine sovereignty, as God uses a "speechless" animal to rebuke the "madness" of the false prophet Balaam, demonstrating His capacity to expose human folly and accomplish His purposes through unexpected means. Thus, the `{{G5268}}` stands as a quiet yet profound witness to both the humble character of the Messiah and the majestic, sovereign power of God.
TRV