βόθυνος
a pit, ditch
Definition
βόθυνος refers to a pit or ditch, a hole dug in the ground. In the New Testament, it consistently describes a man-made excavation, often dangerous if one falls into it. In Matthew 12:11, it is a pit into which a sheep might fall, needing rescue. In Matthew 15:14 and Luke 6:39, it metaphorically represents a pit of spiritual error or blindness that guides and followers alike risk tumbling into.
Biblical Usage
This word is used three times in the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew and Luke). It appears in two distinct contexts: a literal, physical hazard for an animal (Matthew 12:11) and a metaphorical danger of false teaching or spiritual blindness (Matthew 15:14, Luke 6:39). Jesus uses it to illustrate practical compassion and to warn against the consequences of following blind guides.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek verb βυθίζω (buthizō, G1036), meaning 'to sink' or 'to plunge.' The root conveys the sense of depth. It is a straightforward noun for a dug-out hole or cavity in the ground.
Semantic Range
βόθυνος is theologically significant in its metaphorical use. Jesus employs it to critique religious leaders who lack true spiritual insight, labeling them 'blind guides' who lead people into a 'pit' of error (Matthew 15:14). This reinforces the biblical theme that false teaching is profoundly dangerous, causing spiritual ruin. Understanding this metaphor enriches the reading of Jesus' warnings about discernment and the responsibility of teachers.
In an agrarian society, pits and ditches were common hazards for livestock and people, especially at night. They could be dug for trapping animals, for storage, or as simple hazards from excavation. The metaphor of a 'pit' for disaster or captivity was also strong in the Old Testament (e.g., Psalm 7:15, Proverbs 26:27), making Jesus' imagery immediately resonant to His audience.
φρέαρ (phrear, G5421) — a well or spring, a deep shaft for water. βάθος (bathos, G899) — depth, deep water; an abstract noun for profundity, not a physical hole.
Word Details
How this works
Definitions are from the Dodson Greek-English Lexicon, a concise public-domain resource suitable for introductory word study. Brief glosses are supplemented by STEPBible TBESG data (CC BY 4.0). For advanced research, standard scholarly references include BDAG (Danker, 3rd ed.) and LSJ.
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