### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **phátnē**, represented by `{{G5336}}`, refers to a crib for fodder and is translated as **manger** or **stall**. It is derived from a word meaning "to eat." It appears 4 times in 4 unique verses in the Bible, exclusively within the Gospel of Luke, pointing to a place of feeding and shelter for animals.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5336}}` is central to the account of Jesus' birth. Lacking room in the inn, Mary laid her firstborn son in a **manger** [[Luke 2:7]]. This **manger** then becomes the specific sign given to the shepherds to identify the babe [[Luke 2:12]], and it is where they find him upon their arrival [[Luke 2:16]]. The word is also used by Jesus in a later teaching, where he refers to the common practice of loosing an ox or an ass from its **stall** on the Sabbath to lead it to water [[Luke 13:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the settings in which a `{{G5336}}` would be found:
* `{{G1016}}` **boûs** (an ox): This word refers to an animal of the ox species. It is mentioned in connection with `{{G5336}}` in the Sabbath illustration, where an **ox** is loosed from its stall [[Luke 13:15]].
* `{{G3688}}` **ónos** (a donkey): This term for a donkey, or an ass, is used alongside the ox in the same example of an animal being led from its **stall** [[Luke 13:15]].
* `{{G4222}}` **potízō** (to furnish drink, irrigate): This word, meaning to give drink or water, describes the action for which an animal would be led from its stall. Jesus' example specifies leading the animal away for **watering** [[Luke 13:15]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G5336}}` is established through its distinct uses in Luke's Gospel.
* **A Sign of Humility:** The placement of the newborn babe in a **manger** underscores the humble circumstances of his birth, as there was no room for the family in the inn [[Luke 2:7]]. This specific, lowly place was designated as the key "sign" for the shepherds to find him [[Luke 2:12]].
* **A Place of Sustenance:** The word’s use as a **stall** for livestock highlights its function as a place of routine care and provision [[Luke 13:15]]. This reinforces its basic identity as a feeding trough.
* **An Illustration of Mercy:** Jesus uses the example of untying an animal from its **stall** `{{G5336}}` on the Sabbath to show that acts of basic care and mercy are appropriate on any day, thereby rebuking the hypocrisy of his critics [[Luke 13:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5336}}` is a focused term whose importance is tied directly to its context in the Gospel of Luke. As a **manger**, it is a powerful symbol in the nativity story, signifying a humble beginning and serving as the sign of the newborn Son's location. As a **stall**, it functions within Jesus' teaching as a down-to-earth example of compassionate care, illustrating a key theological point. Though used only four times, the word marks both a place of lowly birth and a reference point for mercy.
TRV