Strong’s Greek 4420 (πτέρυξ, plural πτέρυγες) appears five times, always translated “wings.” Twice it is spoken by Jesus in lament over Jerusalem (Matthew 23:37; Luke 13:34), and three times it occurs in the climactic visions of Revelation (Revelation 4:8; 9:9; 12:14). In every occurrence the word functions symbolically—never merely zoologically—conveying protection, mobility, or judgment in connection with divine action.

Wings as Covenant Shelter

Matthew 23:37 and Luke 13:34 picture the Messiah’s yearning heart: “How often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were unwilling!”. The image draws on the long-standing Old Testament motif of refuge “under the shadow of His wings” (Psalm 17:8; 36:7; 57:1; 91:4). Here Jesus identifies Himself with the covenant Lord, offering safety, intimacy, and covenant mercy. The people’s refusal highlights the gravity of rejecting divine shelter: judgment follows when the wings are spurned.

Heavenly Worship and Holiness

Revelation 4:8 transports the reader to the throne room: “Each of the four living creatures had six wings and was covered with eyes all around, even under its wings.” The six-winged beings recall the seraphim of Isaiah 6:2–3, linking Old and New Testament visions of God’s holiness. The innumerable eyes signify exhaustive perception; the wings, unceasing readiness. The text underscores that ceaseless worship and swift obedience are the natural environment of heaven.

Wings of Deliverance in Eschatology

Revelation 12:14: “But the woman was given the two wings of a great eagle, so that she could fly to a place prepared for her in the wilderness, where she would be nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, away from the serpent’s presence.” Echoing Exodus 19:4 (“I carried you on eagles’ wings”), the verse portrays God’s faithful preservation of His covenant community during tribulation. The eagle’s wings express both speed and strength, assuring believers that end-time pressures cannot thwart divine protection.

Wings in Scenes of Judgment

Revelation 9:9 describes demonic locusts: “They had breastplates like iron, and the sound of their wings was like the roar of many horses and chariots rushing into battle.” Whereas earlier references emphasize shelter or holiness, this verse presents wings as agents of terror and unstoppable advance. The contrast accentuates the moral polarity of Revelation: the same symbol of mobility and power becomes either deliverance or devastation, depending on one’s relationship to God.

Interbiblical and Historical Resonances

Jewish literature between the Testaments often employed wing imagery for angelic beings and for God’s providence (e.g., 1 Enoch 14:11; 39:2). Rabbinic commentary on Ruth 2:12 spoke of taking refuge beneath the “wings of the Shekinah.” Such background enriches the New Testament usage, showing continuity in depicting divine nearness and protection.

Ministry Significance for Today

1. Christ’s Compassion: The hen imagery sharpens pastoral sensitivity. Ministry that imitates Christ eagerly gathers the vulnerable, yet must also acknowledge that people can “be unwilling.”
2. Worship and Obedience: Revelation 4:8 calls congregations to emulate the creatures’ perpetual adoration and readiness to serve.
3. Perseverance under Trial: Revelation 12:14 assures believers facing hostility that God’s provision will match every assault.
4. Sobriety about Judgment: Revelation 9:9 warns that rejecting divine shelter transforms potential blessing into frightening judgment.

Theological Summary

Across Scripture, wings consistently represent divine initiative—whether in protective embrace, sanctifying worship, rescuing power, or righteous retribution. Strong’s 4420 gathers these threads in concentrated form, reminding readers that the God who “covers you with His feathers” (Psalm 91:4) is the same God who “executes judgment on all” (Jude 15). To rest beneath His wings is life; to refuse is loss.