The Greek word ágra, represented by G61, refers to the specific act of catching fish, or more concretely, the resulting haul or draught of fish. It is a highly specific term that appears only 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible.
Both occurrences of G61 are found in the same narrative in the Gospel of Luke. Initially, the word is used when Jesus commands Simon to "let down your nets for a draught" Luke 5:4, presenting the catch as a future event. The word appears again immediately following the miracle, describing the disciples' reaction of astonishment "at the draught of the fishes which they had taken" Luke 5:9. In this context, G61 signifies a supernaturally abundant catch that defies the disciples' prior fruitless efforts.
Several related Greek words provide a fuller context for the event surrounding the draught:
- G5465 chaláō (to lower): This is the direct action that initiates the catch. Jesus commands the disciples to let down their nets Luke 5:4, and Simon obeys, stating "I will let down the net" Luke 5:5.
- G1350 díktyon (a seine (for fishing)): This is the instrument used to gather the draught. The disciples are told to let down their nets Luke 5:4, and the resulting haul is so large that their net began to break Luke 5:6.
- G4815 syllambánō (to clasp, i.e. seize (arrest, capture)): This verb describes the act of securing the haul. The disciples were astonished at the catch which they had taken Luke 5:9.
- G2486 ichthýs (a fish): This word identifies the contents of the draught. The event is explicitly called "the draught of the fishes" Luke 5:9, and the nets were filled with a "great multitude of fishes" Luke 5:6.
The significance of G61 is tied directly to its role in this single miraculous event.
- A Result of Obedience: The draught does not occur until Simon acts on Jesus's word, despite a long night of catching nothing Luke 5:5. The haul is a direct consequence of trusting a command that seemed illogical.
- A Sign of Divine Power: The sheer size of the draught is what causes astonishment among the professional fishermen Luke 5:9. It serves as a powerful sign of authority over nature.
- A Pivotal Narrative Element: The draught is the central element of the story, transforming a scene of failure into one of overwhelming abundance and amazement, directly preceding a call to discipleship.
In summary, G61 is a focused term for a haul of fish. While its usage is rare, its placement in the miraculous catch narrative makes it pivotal. It represents more than just a successful fishing trip; it is the tangible evidence of divine power that results from obedience, leading to astonishment and a deeper understanding of Jesus's authority.
TRV