ταῦρος
tauros
bull
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
SupportedThe Greek word ταῦρος (tauros) is defined as a bull. It occurs four times in the Bible, indicating its limited but specific usage. As a noun, ταῦρος refers to a male cattle, likely an adult male with a robust build, which is the typical connotation of a bull. The significance of ταῦρος lies in its association with strength, power, and fertility. In ancient Greek culture, bulls were revered for their virility and were often used in agricultural and ritual contexts. The limited occurrences of ταῦρος in the Bible suggest that its meaning is specialized and context-dependent, rather than a general term for any type of animal. Given its definition and usage, ταῦρος is a precise and evocative term that conveys a sense of potency and masculinity. Its limited appearance in the Bible underscores its specialized meaning and significance, which is likely tied to its cultural and symbolic associations in ancient Greek society.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
4 total occurrences across the text
Again he sent out other servants, saying, ‘Tell those who are invited, “Behold, I have prepared my dinner. My cattle and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready. Come to the wedding feast!” ’
Acts 14:13The priest of Jupiter, whose temple was in front of their city, brought oxen and garlands to the gates, and would have made a sacrifice along with the multitudes.
Hebrews 10:4For it is impossible that the blood of bulls and goats should take away sins.
Hebrews 9:13For if the blood of goats and bulls, and the ashes of a heifer sprinkling those who have been defiled, sanctify to the cleanness of the flesh,