πρόβατον (probaton)
probaton
sheep
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 37 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek noun probaton refers to a sheep, or more broadly to small four-footed livestock that graze. Its root relates to moving forward, suggesting an animal defined by its movement and dependence on a guide. In the New Testament, it appears in about thirty-seven verses, often describing Jesus’ compassion for crowds who were like "sheep without a shepherd" (Mark 6:34) or illustrating the value of a single lost animal (Matthew 18:12).
While classical Greek sometimes used the word for cattle generally, the New Testament consistently applies it to sheep. This distinction matters because sheep are known for their vulnerability and need for protection. The term appears in John’s Gospel where Jesus identifies himself as the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep (John 10:11), contrasting the caring leader with a hired hand who abandons them when danger approaches.
The word also carries metaphorical weight regarding submission and care. In Matthew 25:33, probaton is set against goats to separate those who have shown mercy from those who have not. Similarly, Romans 8:36 quotes the Psalms, describing believers as "sheep for slaughter" to emphasize total vulnerability before God. Translators usually keep the literal image of sheep because it preserves the original picture of guidance, protection, and sacrificial love.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word for sheep in the New Testament paints a picture of gentle dependence. These animals are not known for their strength or independence, but for their need for guidance and protection. When Jesus uses this image, He is highlighting our own vulnerability. We often feel scattered by life’s pressures, much like a flock without a leader. In that state, we look for someone who will care for us deeply and personally.
Jesus presents Himself as the one who meets this need completely. He does not just point the way; He walks ahead of His followers, ensuring they know His voice. This relationship is built on trust rather than force. When danger arises, a true shepherd stays to protect, even at great personal cost. This assurance allows us to rest in His care, knowing we are valued individually and held securely.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 37 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- sheep29×
- sheep.6×
- the sheep2×
- than a sheep?1×
- of sheep,1×
- a sheep1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- πρόβατα24×
- προβάτων.4×
- προβάτων3×
- πρόβατά2×
- πρόβατον2×
- πρόβατόν1×
- πρόβατα.1×
- προβάτων.¶1×
- προβάτων,1×
- προβάτου;1×
Key Verses
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Matthew 9:36
But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion for them because they were harassed and scattered, like sheep without a shepherd.
This verse shows Jesus’ compassion for people who feel lost and directionless, comparing their spiritual state to sheep lacking a guide.
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John 10:11
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.
Here Jesus defines His role by contrasting Himself with hired workers, emphasizing that He willingly sacrifices Himself for the safety of the flock.
-
Matthew 18:12
“What do you think? If a man has one hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray, doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine, go to the mountains, and seek that which has gone astray?
The parable illustrates God’s active pursuit of those who have strayed, showing that every individual matters enough to be sought out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does probaton mean in the Bible?
Why does Jesus call Himself the Good Shepherd?
How is probaton different from other animal terms in Scripture?
Every Occurrence (37 verses across 9 books)
Matthew 11 verses
“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravening wolves.
Matthew 9:36But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion for them because they were harassed and scattered, like…
Matthew 10:6Rather, go to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.
Matthew 10:16“Behold, I send you out as sheep among wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves.
Matthew 12:11He said to them, “What man is there among you who has one sheep, and if this one falls into a pit on the Sabbath day,…
Matthew 12:12Of how much more value then is a man than a sheep! Therefore it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath day.”
Matthew 15:24But he answered, “I wasn’t sent to anyone but the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”
Matthew 18:12“What do you think? If a man has one hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray, doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine, go…
Matthew 25:32Before him all the nations will be gathered, and he will separate them one from another, as a shepherd separates the…
Matthew 25:33He will set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.
Matthew 26:31Then Jesus said to them, “All of you will be made to stumble because of me tonight, for it is written, ‘I will strike…