νοσσίον

a nestling, the young of birds

Definition

The Greek word νοσσίον specifically means a nestling or a young bird still in the nest. It refers to the helpless, dependent offspring of birds, often chicks that are not yet ready to fly. In the New Testament, it is used metaphorically by Jesus in Matthew 23:37 to represent the vulnerable inhabitants of Jerusalem, whom He longs to gather and protect like a mother bird gathers her young. This is its only biblical occurrence, so its meaning is consistent and focused on this image of tender, parental care.

Biblical Usage

Νοσσίον is used only once in the New Testament, in Matthew 23:37. Jesus employs it in a lament over Jerusalem, saying, 'How often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings.' Here, the word is central to a powerful simile, where Jesus compares His own protective, grieving love for the people to the instinctual care of a bird for its young. The usage is entirely metaphorical and emotional, highlighting a relationship of intended shelter and belonging.

Etymology

Νοσσίον is a diminutive noun derived from the earlier Greek word νοσσός (nossos), which means a young bird or chick. The diminutive suffix (-ιον) adds a sense of smallness or endearment, emphasizing the youth, vulnerability, and perhaps the cherished nature of the young bird. It is related to the verb νέομαι (neomai), meaning 'to go' or 'to return,' possibly connected to the idea of the young returning to the nest.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it provides one of the Bible's most poignant images of God's compassionate nature. In Matthew 23:37, Jesus uses νοσσίον to reveal His heart as the Messiah: a divine figure who embodies nurturing, protective love and deep sorrow over human rejection. It enriches the understanding of Jesus' character, showing Him not only as a king or judge but as a grieving protector whose offer of salvation is tender and personal. This metaphor directly connects to themes of God's sheltering presence (e.g., Psalm 91:4) and His persistent call to repentance and refuge.

In the ancient agrarian setting, the image of a hen gathering her chicks was a universally understood symbol of protection from predators and storms. The vulnerability of nestlings (νοσσίον) would have been immediately apparent to Jesus' audience, making the metaphor powerfully relatable. This contrasts with some modern, urban understandings where the nurturing behavior of poultry might be less familiar. The metaphor draws on everyday observation to communicate profound spiritual truth about care and safety.

νεοσσός (neossos, G3502) — A more general term for a young bird or chick, without the diminutive's nuance of endearment or specific focus on being in the nest. πτηνόν (ptēnon, G4071) — A general term for a bird or flying creature, not specifying age. στρουθίον (strouthion, G4765) — A sparrow, a specific type of small bird, sometimes used generically.

Word Details

Scripture References