Introduction

Understanding Greek words in biblical studies is crucial for unlocking the depth and nuances of New Testament texts. The Greek word θηρίον (thērion) is particularly significant because it is often used to describe “wild beasts” and carries a range of connotations, from literal wild animals to metaphorical representations of destructive forces or entities. This term appears frequently in apocalyptic literature, such as the Book of Revelation, where it symbolizes chaotic and malevolent powers. Recognizing the usage and context of θηρίον helps deepen our understanding of biblical symbolism and ancient Greek culture.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: θηρίον (thērion) [THAY-ree-on]
• Etymology: Derived from the root θηρ (thēr), meaning “wild animal” or “beast.” The suffix -ιον (-ion) forms a diminutive, implying “a small wild animal” but often used more broadly to refer to beasts in general.
• Part of Speech: Noun (Neuter); used to describe wild animals or metaphorically to symbolize dangerous or destructive entities.
• Grammatical Details: Second declension noun; characterized by its neuter singular endings.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• Wild beast: Refers to a wild or feral animal, typically untamed and potentially dangerous.
• Metaphorical beast: Used metaphorically to describe an entity or force that is chaotic, dangerous, or destructive, often in apocalyptic or prophetic contexts.

Similar Words: θηρ (thēr) [THAYR] is the root word meaning “wild animal” or “beast.” While θηρίον is often used in a general or diminutive sense for “wild beast,” θηρ can also refer to a specific wild animal. Another related term is ζῷον (zōon) [ZOH-on], meaning “living creature” or “animal.” Unlike θηρίον, which often carries a connotation of wildness or ferocity, ζῷον is a more neutral term that can refer to any living being, not necessarily wild or dangerous.

Further Insights: As a second declension neuter noun, θηρίον follows a predictable pattern in Greek grammar. Here is the full declension of θηρίον:

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: θηρίον is defined as “wild animal, beast.” The lexicon emphasizes its usage in apocalyptic literature to symbolize evil powers or entities. BDAG notes that θηρίον is frequently employed in contexts where chaos, danger, or judgment is being described, particularly in the Book of Revelation.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: Thayer’s describes θηρίον as “a wild beast, an animal,” commonly used in biblical texts to convey both literal and figurative meanings. It highlights the metaphorical use of the word in describing opponents of God or forces of evil in apocalyptic prophecy.
• Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Vine’s focuses on the symbolic usage of θηρίον in Scripture, noting that it often represents a hostile or evil power, particularly in prophetic books like Daniel and Revelation. Vine’s also discusses its usage to describe actual wild animals in more literal contexts.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): The LSJ lexicon provides a broad overview of θηρίον, detailing its application from “wild beast” in classical Greek literature to “monster” or “beast” in figurative uses. The lexicon also covers its appearance in various contexts where the term is used to describe dangerous or untamed creatures.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: G2342. Strong’s defines θηρίον as “a wild animal,” noting its extensive use in both the Old and New Testaments, particularly in prophetic literature where it symbolizes chaotic or evil forces. The concordance emphasizes the contrast between θηρίον and terms for domesticated or benign animals.

Related Scripture References

• Revelation 13:1: “And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast (θηρίον) rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy.”
• Revelation 13:11: “And I beheld another beast (θηρίον) coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon.”
• Acts 28:4: “And when the barbarians saw the venomous beast (θηρίον) hang on his hand, they said among themselves, No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live.”

Classical Usage

Summary of θηρίον (G2342)

The Greek noun θηρίον (thērion) primarily means “wild beast” and is used in various contexts to describe dangerous or untamed animals. In the New Testament, particularly in the Book of Revelation, it takes on a significant metaphorical role to symbolize chaotic, destructive, or evil entities that oppose God. The word’s use in both literal and figurative contexts highlights its versatility and depth, providing insight into ancient Greek culture and biblical symbolism. Understanding θηρίον is crucial for interpreting biblical texts that employ vivid imagery to communicate spiritual truths.

Did You Know?

The term θηρίον became widely used in Christian writings and apocalyptic literature to describe not just animals but also powerful figures or regimes perceived as enemies of the faith. In early Christian iconography, θηρίον often represented oppressive Roman emperors or other forces perceived as antagonistic to Christianity, demonstrating how language can evolve to take on profound symbolic meanings in religious and cultural contexts.