Hen (2)
TextsWhat is the meaning of Hen (2) in the Bible?
In the Greek texts of Matthew 23:37 and Luke 13:34, the word 'alektryon' (often translated as hen) is used in Jesus' lament over Jerusalem. The phrase translates to 'Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those sent to her, how often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you would not have it.'
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing the Hebrew origin of this term illuminates the linguistic continuity between Jesus' words and the prophetic tradition of the Hebrew Bible. It highlights the use of maternal bird imagery to depict divine protection, allowing readers to better appreciate the cultural and scriptural depth of the Gospels' portrayal of God's longing for Israel.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
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Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.