Brief Overview of πάρδαλις (Strong’s G3917: pardalis)

Strong’s G3917: A noun meaning “leopard,” appearing once in Revelation 13:2 as part of the description of the beast from the sea. In ancient literature, the leopard symbolized speed, ferocity, and cunning. Used apocalyptically to represent dangerous political and spiritual power.

U- Unveiling the Word

πάρδαλις refers specifically to the leopard, known for its speed, strength, and spotted appearance. In its sole New Testament usage in Revelation, it forms part of a composite beast image representing dangerous political and spiritual power. The leopard’s characteristics of agility and ferocity contribute to the apocalyptic imagery. Early church fathers interpreted this symbolism as representing worldly kingdoms and spiritual opposition to God’s people. Today, it continues to symbolize the dangerous combination of political power and spiritual deception.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πάρδαλις, pardalis, /PAR-dal-is/
• Detailed pronunciation: PAR (stressed) + dal (as in ‘doll’) + is (as in ‘is’)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• Basic noun from ancient Indo-European root
• Related to Persian ‘pars’ and Sanskrit ‘prdaku’
• -ις (-is): feminine noun ending

D – Defining Meanings

• Leopard
• Spotted wild cat
• Swift predatory beast

Translation Options:

• “Leopard” – most precise zoological equivalent
• “Panther” – alternative used in some classical texts
• “Spotted cat” – descriptive alternative

E – Exploring Similar Words

• λέων (leōn) /LEH-own/ – lion, another fierce predator
• ἄρκος (arkos) /AR-kos/ – bear, also used in apocalyptic imagery
• θήρ (thēr) /THAIR/ – wild beast, more general term

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a noun, πάρδαλις exhibits:

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Gender: Feminine
• Declension: 3rd

Examples:
πάρδαλις (nom. sing.)
πάρδαλεως (gen. sing.)
πάρδαλιν (acc. sing.)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its apocalyptic significance. Thayer’s notes its connection to Daniel’s visions. LSJ documents extensive classical usage in natural history. Vine’s highlights its symbolic importance in Revelation. Moulton and Milligan note its rare occurrence in non-literary papyri.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“And the beast that I saw was like a [πάρδαλις] leopard; its feet were like a bear’s, and its mouth was like a lion’s mouth” (Revelation 13:2)

Additional References:
None in the New Testament

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

πάρδαλις represents both a literal leopard and a powerful apocalyptic symbol, combining speed, strength, and cunning in imagery that warns of dangerous political and spiritual powers.

D – Did You Know?

• The leopard was known as the swiftest of the great cats in ancient literature
• The word appears in Daniel’s visions in the Septuagint, influencing its use in Revelation
• Ancient Near Eastern rulers often used leopard imagery to symbolize their power

[Lexicon Summary]
A noun meaning “leopard,” appearing once in Revelation 13:2 as part of the description of the beast from the sea. In ancient literature, the leopard symbolized speed, ferocity, and cunning. Used apocalyptically to represent dangerous political and spiritual power.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: #noun #revelation #apocalyptic #beast #leopard #prophecy #symbolism #biblical_greek #new_testament #daniel​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​