ὀφρῦς

the brow, a ridge

Definition

The Greek word ὀφρῦς refers literally to the eyebrow or brow of a person, but it can also be used metaphorically to describe a ridge or projecting part of a landscape, like a mountain brow or cliff. In its sole New Testament occurrence in Luke 4:29, it is used in this topographical sense to describe the edge of the hill on which Nazareth was built, from which the townspeople intended to throw Jesus. The word captures the image of a steep, prominent edge.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Luke 4:29. It describes the physical location—the brow of the hill—where the people of Nazareth led Jesus with the intent to hurl him down after he preached in the synagogue. The usage is purely descriptive of a geographical feature within the narrative of Jesus's rejection in his hometown.

Etymology

Derived from the ancient Greek word ὀφρῦς, meaning 'eyebrow' or 'brow.' The term naturally extended in meaning to describe any prominent ridge or edge, much like the brow of a hill, drawing a direct visual analogy between human anatomy and landscape features.

Semantic Range

In the ancient world, executing someone by throwing them from a height was a known method of mob violence or punishment. The 'brow of the hill' in Luke 4:29 signifies a specific, dangerously steep location familiar to the Nazareth community, highlighting the sudden and severe turn from listening to Jesus to attempting murder. This contrasts with a modern, more generalized understanding of a 'hill.'

ὄρος (oros, G3735) — a more general term for mountain or hill. κρημνός (krēmnos, G2911) — a steep bank, precipice, or cliff, often with a stronger connotation of a sheer drop.

Word Details

Scripture References