### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **zōon**, represented by `{{G2226}}`, is a term for **a live thing, i.e. an animal** or **beast**. It appears **23 times** across **20 unique verses** in the Bible, with its most significant usage found in the book of Revelation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2226}}` is used in several distinct contexts. The overwhelming majority of its appearances are in Revelation, where it refers to the "four **beasts**" surrounding the throne of God. These living creatures are full of eyes, are central to the heavenly court, and continuously worship God ([[Revelation 4:6]], [[Revelation 4:8]]). This term is also used in Hebrews to refer to the bodies of sacrificial **beasts** under the old covenant [[Hebrews 13:11]]. In a sharply contrasting usage, both Peter and Jude use the term to describe corrupt people as "brute **beasts**," who act on instinct and are made for destruction ([[2 Peter 2:12]], [[Jude 1:10]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{G2226}}` is used:
* `{{G3023}}` **léōn** (a "lion"): This describes the appearance of the first of the four heavenly beasts [[Revelation 4:7]]. The term is also used to identify Christ as the **Lion** of the tribe of Juda [[Revelation 5:5]].
* `{{G249}}` **álogos** (irrational): This word is used directly with `{{G2226}}` to form the phrase "brute **beasts**," emphasizing the irrational, instinct-driven nature of the corrupt people being described ([[2 Peter 2:12]], [[Jude 1:10]]).
* `{{G721}}` **arníon** (a lambkin): The four **beasts** are consistently depicted in the presence of the **Lamb**. They stand in the midst of the throne with the **Lamb** [[Revelation 5:6]] and fall down to worship Him [[Revelation 5:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2226}}` is demonstrated through its varied applications.
* **Throne Room Participants:** The four **beasts** are central figures in the heavenly throne room. They are located in the midst of the throne [[Revelation 4:6]], lead worship by ceaselessly crying "Holy, holy, holy" [[Revelation 4:8]], and participate in initiating divine judgment by calling forth the seal judgments [[Revelation 6:1]] and delivering the vials of wrath [[Revelation 15:7]].
* **Sacrifice and Sin:** In Hebrews, the word refers to the physical bodies of **beasts** whose blood was brought into the sanctuary for sin, linking `{{G2226}}` to the rituals of the old covenant [[Hebrews 13:11]].
* **Human Corruption:** In a negative sense, `{{G2226}}` is used to depict corrupt individuals who are compared to "brute **beasts**," described as irrational, operating on instinct, and destined for destruction [[2 Peter 2:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2226}}` is a versatile word that translates as "live thing" or "beast." Its meaning shifts dramatically with context, from describing the glorious, celestial beings that worship God and execute His will, to the animals of the sacrificial system, and finally to a metaphor for depraved humans who lack spiritual understanding.
TRV