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Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words like κέρας (keras) is essential for a deeper comprehension of Biblical texts and the cultural context of ancient Greek society. The word κέρας, meaning “horn,” carries significant metaphorical and literal meanings in the New Testament and broader Greek literature. Its usage ranges from describing physical horns of animals to symbolic representations of power and authority, which is crucial for interpreting many prophetic and apocalyptic passages in the Bible.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: κέρας (keras), pronounced [KE-ras].

Etymology: The word κέρας is rooted in ancient Greek, referring primarily to the horn of an animal. The horn was often associated with strength and power, likely due to the role of horns in both defense and offense among animals. This term has also influenced modern words like “keratin,” a substance found in human hair and nails.

Part of Speech: κέρας is a neuter noun. In Greek, it follows the third declension pattern, which affects how the word changes in different cases and numbers. Understanding these declensions is essential for correctly interpreting the word in various Biblical and extra-biblical texts.

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Defining Meanings

The primary meaning of κέρας is “horn,” referring to the physical structure found on animals such as bulls, goats, and rams. This literal sense is evident in various Biblical passages describing the horns of sacrificial animals.

Another significant meaning is metaphorical. κέρας symbolizes power, authority, and might. This metaphorical usage is especially prominent in apocalyptic literature, such as the Book of Revelation, where horns on beasts represent kingdoms, kings, or powers.

Additionally, κέρας can be used in a poetic or figurative sense to denote glory, strength, or dominion. The concept of “lifting up the horn” is a Hebrew idiom that conveys the idea of being exalted or gaining victory.

Exploring Similar Words

κέρας (keras) [KE-ras] differs in meaning from:

κάρα (kara) [KA-ra]: This word means “head” and is often used in poetic contexts. Unlike κέρας, which refers to horns or power, κάρα focuses more on the physical head or crown of a person or object.

κέραμος (keramos) [KE-ra-mos]: Meaning “potter’s clay” or “ceramics,” this word has no direct relation to horns or power but shares a similar root, illustrating how Greek morphology can branch into different meanings.

κέρδος (kerdos) [KER-dos]: Translating to “gain” or “profit,” this word represents a concept entirely unrelated to κέρας, showing the diversity in Greek word formation.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Nouns/Adjectives:
Case, Number, Gender: κέρας is a neuter noun, and its forms change based on case and number. Here is an overview:

• Nominative Singular: κέρας (the horn)
• Genitive Singular: κέρατος (of the horn)
• Dative Singular: κέρατι (to/for the horn)
• Accusative Singular: κέρας (the horn)
• Nominative Plural: κέρατα (the horns)
• Genitive Plural: κερατῶν (of the horns)
• Dative Plural: κεράσι(ν) (to/for the horns)
• Accusative Plural: κέρατα (the horns)

Declension: κέρας belongs to the third declension class, characterized by its varying stem changes, which can make it challenging for students of Greek to master.

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The word κέρας is richly analyzed across several lexicons, each highlighting its literal and metaphorical usages. In New Testament contexts, such as in Revelation, κέρας symbolizes power and authority, often of a corrupt or aggressive nature. In classical Greek literature, the term is often more literal, referring to the horns of animals or even the crescent shape of the moon. The Septuagint also uses κέρας metaphorically to denote strength and divine favor. Theological implications of κέρας can relate to themes of divine judgment, military might, and royal authority.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Luke 1:69: “And hath raised up a horn [κέρας] of salvation for us in the house of his servant David.”
2. Revelation 5:6: “And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns [κέρατα] and seven eyes.”
3. Daniel 8:5: (LXX) “And as I was considering, behold, a he-goat came from the west on the face of the whole earth, and touched not the ground: and the goat had a notable horn [κέρας] between his eyes.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The word κέρας provides valuable insight into both Biblical and classical literature. It carries meanings that span from literal descriptions of animal horns to complex metaphors of power and authority. Its usage across different texts and contexts reveals the richness of Greek vocabulary in conveying multifaceted ideas and theological themes.

Did You Know?

• In ancient Israel, the “horns” of the altar were used in rituals for atonement and purification, symbolizing refuge and divine strength.
• The phrase “lift up your horn” in Hebrew culture, reflected in Greek usage, symbolizes being exalted or gaining power.
• In Greek mythology, the god Pan is often depicted with κέρατα, representing his untamed nature and connection to the wilderness.