Brief Overview of ἀκρίς (G200)

The Greek word ἀκρίς (akris) refers to a “locust.” In biblical texts, it often denotes a type of insect known for its swarming behavior, which is commonly found in the region. The term is used in contexts related to agricultural and ecological observations, particularly in descriptions of natural phenomena and their impact on crops.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• G200 ἀκρίς (akris): According to Strong’s Concordance, ἀκρίς specifically means “locust.” It refers to a type of grasshopper known for its destructive swarming habits, which can have significant effects on agriculture. The term is used in various biblical contexts to describe locusts, often highlighting their role in agricultural devastation or as a symbol in prophetic literature.

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Thayer’s Lexicon defines ἀκρίς as “locust,” describing the insect noted for its ability to swarm in large numbers and cause considerable damage to crops. The lexicon notes that locusts were significant in the ancient world both as a natural phenomenon and a symbol in biblical texts, where they sometimes represented divine judgment or disaster.

1. Brown-Driver-Briggs (BDB) Lexicon:

• The BDB Lexicon also identifies ἀκρίς as “locust.” It provides details on the insect’s behavior and its impact on the environment. Locusts are noted for their ability to consume large quantities of vegetation, making them a significant agricultural pest in biblical times.

1. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon:

• The LSJ Lexicon confirms that ἀκρίς means “locust” and describes its role in Greek and Roman literature. Locusts were known for their swarming behavior, which could devastate crops, and the term is used in similar contexts in biblical literature.

In summary, ἀκρίς denotes a “locust,” an insect known for its swarming nature and potential for agricultural damage. It is used in biblical texts to describe this insect and its effects, often serving as a symbol of destruction or divine judgment.