πτύσσω

I fold, roll up

Definition

The verb πτύσσω means to fold or roll up, specifically referring to the action of rolling up a scroll. In its single New Testament occurrence in Luke 4:20, it describes Jesus rolling up the scroll of Isaiah after reading from it in the synagogue. This action was a standard, respectful way to handle a scroll after a public reading. The term carries no other distinct biblical meanings, as its usage is limited to this literal, physical action.

Biblical Usage

πτύσσω is used only once in the New Testament, in Luke 4:20. It describes a specific moment in the synagogue at Nazareth where Jesus, having read from the scroll of the prophet Isaiah, rolls up the scroll, hands it back to the attendant, and sits down to teach. The word is used in a straightforward, narrative context to depict a common cultural practice of handling a sacred text.

Etymology

The word πτύσσω is a primary verb in Greek. Its root meaning is 'to fold' or 'to double over.' It is related to the idea of compacting or closing something that is rolled, like a scroll or a sail. Cognates or direct derivatives in the New Testament are not common, as the word itself is a simple, action-oriented term.

Semantic Range

While the action of 'rolling up' a scroll is mundane, its context in Luke 4:20 is highly significant. Jesus has just read Isaiah 61:1-2, proclaiming Himself as the fulfillment of that prophecy ('Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing'). The act of rolling up the scroll formally concludes the reading and marks the transition to His authoritative teaching. It symbolizes a moment of closure on the old reading and the dramatic opening of its fulfillment in His person and ministry. Understanding this action enriches the scene's solemnity and intentionality.

In the first-century Jewish world, biblical texts were written on scrolls made of parchment or papyrus. After a public reading in the synagogue, it was a standard practice of respect and care to neatly roll the scroll back up. The attendant mentioned in Luke 4:20 was responsible for storing the sacred scrolls properly. Jesus' action here is not remarkable in itself but is a culturally expected part of synagogue protocol, which makes the astonishing content of His following sermon all the more striking.

ἑλίσσω (helissō, G1667) — Also means to roll or wrap up; used in Revelation 6:14 for the sky rolling up like a scroll, emphasizing a more dramatic, cosmic rolling.

Word Details

Scripture References