The meaning of “πέτρα”
Understanding pétra reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
feminine of the same as Πέτρος rock. - a (mass of) rock (literally or figuratively)
πέτρα
feminine of the same as Πέτρος rock. - a (mass of) rock (literally or figuratively)
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 16:18 | “And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” Word: πέτρα (pétra) | |
| Mark 15:46 | “And he bought fine linen, and took him down, and wrapped him in the linen, and laid him in a sepulchre which was hewn out of a rock, and rolled a stone unto the door of the sepulchre.” Word: πέτρα (pétra) | |
| Luke 8:6 | “And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture.” Word: πέτρα (pétra) | |
| Romans 9:33 | “As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. ” Word: πέτρα (pétra) | |
| 1 Corinthians 10:4 | “And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.” Word: πέτρα (pétra) |
Usage Statistics
Theological Word Study: Rock
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Rock, cliff, fortress
The Hebrew tsur (צוּר) means rock—a title for God emphasizing stability and protection. 'He is the Rock, his work is perfect' (Deuteronomy 32:4). Moses struck the rock and water flowed (Exodus 17:6).
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Rock, bedrock
The Greek petra (πέτρα) means rock or bedrock—a solid foundation. Christ is the rock upon which the church is built (Matthew 16:18), and 'that Rock was Christ' (1 Corinthians 10:4).