### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **akánthinos**, represented by `{{G174}}`, is an adjective meaning **thorny** or **of thorns**. It is a very specific term, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** within the New Testament. Its meaning is derived entirely from its use in describing the crown placed upon Jesus during his passion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The use of `{{G174}}` is exclusively found within the accounts of Jesus' crucifixion. In Mark's Gospel, the Roman soldiers mock Jesus' kingship by weaving a crown **of thorns** and putting it on his head after clothing him in purple [[Mark 15:17]]. Similarly, John's account describes Jesus being presented by Pilate to the crowd while "wearing the crown **of thorns**, and the purple robe" [[John 19:5]]. In both instances, the word specifies the material used to create the painful and humiliating imitation of a royal crown.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the scene where `{{G174}}` is used:
* `{{G4735}}` **stéphanos** (a chaplet... as a badge of royalty, a prize... or a symbol of honor): This is the word for "crown" that `{{G174}}` modifies. While used for the crown of thorns, it more often signifies a victor's prize, such as the "crown of life" [[James 1:12]] or the "crown of righteousness" [[2 Timothy 4:8]].
* `{{G4209}}` **porphýra** (purple): This word for the color purple, associated with royalty and wealth, describes the garment Jesus is clothed in during the mockery in Mark's account [[Mark 15:17]].
* `{{G4210}}` **porphyroûs** (purpureal, i.e. bluish red): This adjectival form, also meaning "purple," is used to describe the robe Jesus wears with the crown of thorns in John's narrative [[John 19:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G174}}` is concentrated in its powerful symbolism within the passion narrative.
* **Mockery of Kingship:** The crown **of thorns** is a deliberate inversion of a `{{G4735}}` **stéphanos**, which was typically a symbol of honor, royalty, or victory. Combined with the purple robe (`{{G4209}}`, `{{G4210}}`), it forms a key part of the soldiers' scorn for Jesus' claim to be a king.
* **Symbol of Suffering:** Unlike a crown of gold or laurel, a crown **of thorns** is an instrument of pain. Its use signifies the physical suffering and humiliation inflicted upon Jesus.
* **Contrast with a True Crown:** The earthly, painful crown **of thorns** stands in stark contrast to the eternal crowns promised to believers, such as the "incorruptible" crown [[1 Corinthians 9:25]] and the "crown of life" [[Revelation 2:10]] that the Lord will give.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G174}}` **akánthinos** is a narrowly defined word whose significance is immense. Though used only twice, it points directly to the crown **of thorns**, a central image in Christian theology. It powerfully conveys the themes of suffering, humiliation, and the mockery of Christ's kingship, while also creating a poignant contrast with the glorious and eternal crowns that represent true honor and eternal life in God's kingdom.
TRV