Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial for biblical studies as it allows us to grasp the depth and nuances of the original text. The Greek word θρόνος (thronos) is particularly significant as it appears frequently in the New Testament and other ancient Greek literature. It is a word that carries rich connotations of authority, governance, and divine rulership. In both biblical and classical contexts, θρόνος is often used to denote a throne or seat of power, making it a key term for interpreting passages related to kingship, divine authority, and heavenly imagery.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: θρόνος (thronos) [THRO-nos]
• Etymology: Likely derived from a root meaning “to sit” or “to be seated,” reflecting the concept of a seat of power or authority.
• Part of Speech: Noun (masculine); commonly used to denote a throne or a chair of state or authority.
• Grammatical Details: It is a second declension noun in Greek.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• Throne: A literal or figurative seat of power or authority, often associated with royalty or divinity.
• Chair of State: Used to refer to a seat of governance or decision-making, particularly in a royal or judicial context.
• Seat of Divine Authority: In theological and scriptural contexts, it symbolizes the throne of God or other divine beings.

Similar Words: καθέδρα (kathedra) [ka-THE-dra], which means “chair” or “seat,” is a related word that can also signify a seat of authority but is more commonly used in a secular or academic context. θρόνος is more specific to thrones associated with kings, judges, or divine beings, while καθέδρα may be used in various other contexts, such as teaching or governing.

Further Insights: θρόνος is a second declension masculine noun. Its form changes according to the grammatical case, which is important for understanding its usage in different contexts. Below is a declension table showing the full declension of θρόνος:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Describes θρόνος primarily as “a seat of authority,” with applications ranging from earthly thrones of kings to the heavenly throne of God. It notes its usage in both literal and symbolic senses in the New Testament.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: Focuses on θρόνος as a “throne” or “chair of state,” used for both divine and human authority figures. It points out its frequent use in the Book of Revelation to describe the throne of God and the Lamb.
• Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Explains θρόνος as “a seat of authority,” often signifying royal or divine rulership. It discusses its metaphorical usage to denote power and sovereignty in both Old and New Testament contexts.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Discusses θρόνος as “a throne” or “chair,” including both everyday and ceremonial uses in ancient Greek literature. It also covers its symbolic meanings in philosophical texts.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: G2362. Strong’s defines θρόνος simply as “a throne” or “seat,” emphasizing its use in describing royal or divine authority.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 19:28: “Jesus said to them, ‘Truly I tell you, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne (θρόνος), you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones (θρόνοι) judging the twelve tribes of Israel.'”
• Revelation 4:2: “At once I was in the Spirit, and there before me was a throne (θρόνος) in heaven with someone sitting on it.”
• Revelation 20:11: “Then I saw a great white throne (θρόνος) and him who was seated on it. The earth and the heavens fled from his presence, and there was no place for them.”
• Hebrews 1:8: “But about the Son he says, ‘Your throne (θρόνος), O God, will last forever and ever; a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom.'”
• Luke 1:32: “He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne (θρόνος) of his father David.”

Classical Usage

Summary of θρόνος (G2362)

The Greek word θρόνος (thronos) is a powerful term that primarily means “throne” or “seat of authority.” It is frequently used in the New Testament, especially in eschatological contexts in Revelation, to signify divine or royal authority. The term’s usage extends to classical Greek literature, where it often denotes the seat of a king or a deity. Understanding the depth of θρόνος is essential for interpreting biblical passages that discuss God’s sovereignty, Christ’s kingship, and the authority bestowed upon believers in the age to come. This word captures both the majesty and the solemn responsibility associated with rulership and divine justice.

Did You Know?

The word θρόνος appears nearly 50 times in the New Testament, primarily in the Book of Revelation, where it serves as a central image of divine authority and judgment. It is also one of the few Greek words that have a direct and consistent translation into English as “throne,” reflecting the significance and clarity of its meaning. Moreover, the concept of θρόνος in Greek philosophy and literature has influenced Christian theological interpretations of God’s reign and the ultimate victory of good over evil.