The meaning of “ποιμήν”
Understanding poimḗn reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
of uncertain affinity shepherd, pastor. - a shepherd (literally or figuratively)
ποιμήν
of uncertain affinity shepherd, pastor. - a shepherd (literally or figuratively)
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 25:32 | “And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats:” Word: ποιμήν (poimḗn) | |
| Mark 14:27 | “And Jesus saith unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered.” Word: ποιμήν (poimḗn) | |
| Luke 2:18 | “And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.” Word: ποιμήν (poimḗn) | |
| John 10:12 | “But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep.” Word: ποιμήν (poimḗn) | |
| Ephesians 4:11 | “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;” Word: ποιμήν (poimḗn) |
Theological Word Study: Shepherd
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Shepherd, pastor
The Hebrew ro'eh (רֹעֶה) means shepherd—one who tends and protects a flock. 'The LORD is my shepherd' (Psalm 23:1), and God promised to raise up shepherds who would feed His people (Jeremiah 23:4).
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Shepherd, pastor
The Greek poimen (ποιμήν) means shepherd. Jesus declared 'I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep' (John 10:11). Church leaders are called to shepherd God's flock (1 Peter 5:2).