ὑποζύγιον
hupozugion
donkey
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Greek word ὑποζύγιον (hupozugion) is defined as a "donkey." Its usage is limited to just two occurrences in the Bible. As a lemma with this specific definition, the word is likely used to describe animals that are commonly used for transportation or other purposes, and not specifically referring to the beast of burden we associate strongly with the figure of Balaam's talking donkey in the narrative of Numbers 22. Given its rare usage, the significance of ὑποζύγιον lies in its ability to provide context and accuracy in biblical translations, specifically in conveying a sense of the animal being described. This accuracy in translation may influence interpretation or understanding of a particular passage, as the choice of language used can impact the reader's perception of the narrative events.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
2 total occurrences across the text