### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **akrís**, represented by `{{G200}}`, is the term for a **locust**. Its definition suggests an insect that is pointed or lights on the top of vegetation. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G200}}` is used in two distinct contexts. First, it is presented as a literal food source in the wilderness. For John the Baptist, his diet consisted of **locusts** and wild honey ([[Matthew 3:4]], [[Mark 1:6]]), signifying an ascetic lifestyle. Second, it is used symbolically in the book of Revelation, where supernatural **locusts** emerge from smoke and are given power upon the earth [[Revelation 9:3]]. These apocalyptic **locusts** are described with fearsome imagery, having shapes like horses prepared for battle [[Revelation 9:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the use of `{{G200}}`:
* `{{G66}}` **ágrios** (wild): This word is used to describe the honey eaten alongside the **locusts** by John the Baptist, emphasizing the natural, untamed source of his sustenance ([[Matthew 3:4]], [[Mark 1:6]]). Its definition is "wild (as pertaining to the country), literally (natural) or figuratively (fierce)."
* `{{G3192}}` **méli** (honey): As a primary word for **honey**, this term appears alongside **locusts** as the other component of John's diet, completing the picture of his wilderness provision ([[Matthew 3:4]], [[Mark 1:6]]).
* `{{G4651}}` **skorpíos** (scorpion): In Revelation, the power given to the symbolic **locusts** is directly compared to the power of **scorpions** of the earth, highlighting their role as agents of torment [[Revelation 9:3]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G200}}` is revealed in its contrasting applications:
* **Wilderness Sustenance:** In the Gospels, the **locust** represents a simple, natural food source, characteristic of a prophetic figure like John the Baptist living apart from society. His meal of **locusts** and wild honey points to a life of dependence on God's provision in the wild ([[Matthew 3:4]], [[Mark 1:6]]).
* **Apocalyptic Judgment:** In Revelation, the **locust** is transformed from a natural creature into a terrifying instrument of divine power. These are not ordinary insects but supernatural beings given power like **scorpions** to execute judgment [[Revelation 9:3]]. Their appearance is war-like, with features like crowns and the faces of men [[Revelation 9:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G200}}` **akrís** demonstrates a significant duality in Scripture. It can represent the humble sustenance that supports a prophet in the wilderness or a terrifying, supernatural force unleashed during the apocalypse. The use of this word illustrates how an element of the natural world can be employed to convey both God's simple provision and His mighty power in judgment.
TRV