πέτρα (petra)
petra
rock
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 14 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun petra refers to a massive bedrock or cliff face, distinct from a loose stone. While other Greek words describe detached boulders, this term points to solid, living rock embedded in the earth. It appears fourteen times in the New Testament, often describing physical settings such as the tomb of Jesus (Matthew 27:60) or the cave where believers hide during tribulation (Revelation 6:15).
Its most significant usage is metaphorical. In Matthew 16:18, Jesus builds his church upon this unshakable foundation. The word also describes Christ himself as the spiritual rock that sustained Israel in the wilderness (1 Corinthians 10:4). This usage highlights stability and permanence, contrasting sharply with shifting sand or fragile structures.
Translators consistently render petra as "rock" to preserve its weight and immovability. The term carries theological gravity by emphasizing a foundation that cannot be easily moved or broken. It serves as a powerful image for enduring faith and divine strength in Scripture.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word petra points to solid bedrock, the kind that holds its ground when storms rage. In Matthew 7:24, Jesus uses this image to describe a life built on obedience. When trials come, as described in Matthew 7:25, such a foundation remains unshaken. This offers deep comfort to anyone facing uncertainty. You can trust that what is rooted in Christ’s words will not collapse under pressure.
This stability is not just for individuals but for the whole church. In Matthew 16:18, Jesus declares He will build His assembly on this rock. It suggests a community grounded in truth rather than shifting opinions. Similarly, Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 10:4 that Christ Himself was the spiritual rock for Israel. He has always been the source of life and strength.
Even when we stumble, as Peter notes in 1 Peter 2:8, this rock remains. It is a stone that causes some to fall but offers hope to those who believe. The imagery reminds us that our security does not depend on our own strength but on the immovability of God’s character.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 14 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- rock.4×
- rock,4×
- a rock3×
- rocks2×
- rock2×
- rocks;1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- πέτρας,2×
- πέτρας2×
- πέτραν.¶2×
- πέτραν.2×
- πέτρα2×
- πέτρᾳ,1×
- πέτρᾳ1×
- πέτραν,1×
- πέτραν1×
- πέτραις·1×
- πέτραι1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 7:24
“Everyone therefore who hears these words of mine and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock.
This verse establishes the practical application of hearing and doing Jesus' words, likening such a person to one who builds on solid bedrock.
-
Matthew 16:18
I also tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my assembly, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it.
Here Jesus identifies the 'rock' as the foundation for His church, emphasizing its permanence against the powers of death.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between petra and lithos?
Who is the 'rock' in 1 Corinthians 10:4?
Why does Peter call Jesus a 'stumbling stone'?
Every Occurrence (14 verses across 7 books)
Matthew 5 verses
“Everyone therefore who hears these words of mine and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on…
Matthew 7:25The rain came down, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it didn’t fall, for it was founded…
Matthew 16:18I also tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my assembly, and the gates of Hades will not prevail…
Matthew 27:51Behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two from the top to the bottom. The earth quaked and the rocks were split.
Matthew 27:60and laid it in his own new tomb, which he had cut out in the rock. Then he rolled a large stone against the door of the…