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Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies can provide profound insights into the cultural, theological, and practical contexts of the Scriptures. The word κεράτιον (keration), meaning “pod” or “carob pod,” is particularly significant due to its use in the New Testament to symbolize humility and survival. This word not only reflects the agricultural practices of ancient Judea but also helps us grasp the socio-economic realities and daily life of the time. Its singular appearance in the Bible offers a vivid picture of poverty and repentance, providing a window into ancient Jewish and early Christian values.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: κεράτιον (keration), pronounced [keh-RAH-tee-on].

Etymology: The word κεράτιον is derived from the Greek word κέρας (keras), meaning “horn.” This connection is likely due to the shape of the carob pod, which resembles a small horn. Over time, κεράτιον came to specifically refer to the fruit of the carob tree, which was a staple food for the poor in ancient times.

Part of Speech: κεράτιον is a neuter noun in Greek. It follows the second declension pattern, which affects how the word changes form in various cases and numbers. This declension is essential for understanding the grammatical structure in which the word appears in the New Testament.

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Defining Meanings

The primary meaning of κεράτιον is “carob pod,” which refers to the seed pods of the carob tree, a common plant in the Mediterranean region. The carob pods were often used as food for livestock and, in times of scarcity, could also serve as a last-resort food for humans. This context provides insight into the word’s use in the parable of the Prodigal Son, where it symbolizes desperation and humility.

Another meaning of κεράτιον is metaphorical, indicating something of low value or the very basic sustenance that would only be consumed in times of dire need. This figurative use highlights the word’s association with humility, poverty, and repentance.

Exploring Similar Words

κεράτιον (keration) [keh-RAH-tee-on] differs in meaning from:

κέρας (keras) [KE-ras]: While κέρας refers to a “horn,” its figurative use denotes power or strength. In contrast, κεράτιον represents the opposite concept—weakness, poverty, or basic sustenance.

καρπός (karpos) [kar-POS]: This word means “fruit” in a general sense, referring to any produce from plants or trees. κεράτιον, however, is more specific, describing a particular type of fruit that symbolizes humility or survival food.

σιτεία (siteia) [see-TAY-ah]: Refers to “food” or “provisions” in general. Unlike κεράτιον, which carries a specific connotation of basic sustenance, σιτεία can refer to all kinds of food.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Nouns/Adjectives:
Case, Number, Gender: κεράτιον is a neuter noun in the second declension, and its forms change based on case and number:

• Nominative Singular: κεράτιον (a pod)
• Genitive Singular: κεράτιου (of a pod)
• Dative Singular: κεράτιῳ (to/for a pod)
• Accusative Singular: κεράτιον (a pod)
• Nominative Plural: κεράτια (pods)
• Genitive Plural: κερατίων (of pods)
• Dative Plural: κερατίοις (to/for pods)
• Accusative Plural: κεράτια (pods)

Declension: This noun follows the typical second declension pattern for neuter nouns, which is straightforward in Greek grammar.

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Studying Lexicon Insights

The word κεράτιον appears in several lexicons, each highlighting its role in Biblical and classical texts. In the New Testament, particularly in Luke 15:16, it is used to depict the desperate situation of the Prodigal Son who longed to eat the carob pods given to the pigs. This usage underscores the themes of humility, repentance, and the stark reality of human need. In classical contexts, it maintains a literal sense, referring to the carob pods, which were commonly known as “St. John’s bread” in later traditions. These insights illuminate the word’s layered meanings and applications across different periods and texts.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Luke 15:16: “And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks [κεράτιον] that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.” Here, the term κεράτιον underscores the depth of the Prodigal Son’s fall from grace, reflecting his dire circumstances.

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

κεράτιον provides a unique glimpse into both the physical and metaphorical aspects of life in ancient times. From its literal role as a humble food source in times of need to its symbolic representation of repentance and humility in Biblical parables, this word carries profound significance. Understanding its usage helps deepen our appreciation of the socio-economic and spiritual dynamics present in the New Testament and classical Greek texts.

Did You Know?

• The carob tree, from which κεράτιον derives, was known as “St. John’s Bread,” named after John the Baptist, who reportedly ate locusts and wild honey.
• Carob pods were often ground into powder and used as a natural sweetener, showing their versatility beyond mere animal fodder.
• In Jewish tradition, carob pods symbolized modesty and contentment, as they were often consumed by the less fortunate or in times of need.