### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kálamos**, represented by `{{G2563}}`, primarily refers to a **reed** or the stem of a similar plant. By implication, it can also mean a **pen**. It appears **12 times** across **12 unique verses** in the Bible, and its meaning shifts dramatically depending on the context, from an object of nature to an instrument of mockery, measurement, and writing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its various uses, `{{G2563}}` illustrates different concepts. Jesus uses it metaphorically to question what the crowds expected to see in John the Baptist, asking if they went out to see "A **reed** shaken with the wind?" ([[Matthew 11:7]]; [[Luke 7:24]]), implying something common or unstable. In the narrative of Christ's crucifixion, it becomes an instrument of torment; soldiers place a **reed** in Jesus' right hand as a mock sceptre and then use it to smite him on the head [[Matthew 27:29-30]]. It is also used to offer him vinegar on a sponge [[Matthew 27:48]]. In contrast, the book of Revelation elevates the **reed** to a divine tool for measurement ([[Revelation 11:1]]; [[Revelation 21:15]]). Finally, it is used in its sense as a writing tool, where John states he will not use **ink** and **pen** to write [[3 John 1:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which **kálamos** is used:
* `{{G4937}}` **syntríbō** (to crush completely, i.e. to shatter): This word is used to describe the "bruised" **reed** that Christ will not break, highlighting his gentleness toward the weak [[Matthew 12:20]].
* `{{G3354}}` **metréō** (to measure): This action is directly associated with the **reed** in Revelation, where John is commanded to **measure** the temple of God with a **reed** given to him [[Revelation 11:1]].
* `{{G1702}}` **empaízō** (to jeer at, i.e. deride): This term describes the actions of the soldiers who **mocked** Jesus, an act which included giving him the **reed** as a false sceptre [[Matthew 27:29]].
* `{{G3188}}` **mélan** (ink): This word is used in direct partnership with **kálamos** to describe the common writing implements of the day [[3 John 1:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G2563}}` is seen in its symbolic transformations.
* **Symbol of Human Frailty:** The "bruised **reed**" that will not be broken is a powerful image of Christ's gentle ministry to the vulnerable and downtrodden [[Matthew 12:20]]. The "reed shaken with the wind" serves as a metaphor for human instability [[Matthew 11:7]].
* **Instrument of Humiliation:** In the Passion accounts, the **reed** is a central object in the mockery of Christ's kingship. What is a simple plant becomes a symbol of humanity's scornful rejection of their divine king [[Matthew 27:29]].
* **Standard of Divine Order:** In Revelation, the object is imbued with divine purpose. The "golden **reed**" is used to **measure** the New Jerusalem, signifying God's perfect and holy standard by which his eternal city is established [[Revelation 21:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2563}}` is a versatile word whose meaning is defined by its context. It moves from a simple plant symbolizing weakness and instability to an instrument of profound suffering and humiliation for Christ. Ultimately, it is transformed into a divine standard of measurement in the apocalyptic vision of Revelation, demonstrating how scripture can infuse an ordinary object with extraordinary theological weight, representing themes of frailty, suffering, and divine authority.
TRV