### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb **keírō**, represented by `{{G2751}}`, is a primary verb meaning **to shear**. It appears 5 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. The word's usage centers on the act of cutting hair, whether it involves animals or humans.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2751}}` is used in both literal and figurative contexts. It describes the literal act of cutting hair as part of a vow, as when Paul had his head **shorn** in Cenchrea [[Acts 18:18]]. Figuratively, it is used in a prophecy quoted in Acts, describing a submissive figure as a lamb before its **shearer** [[Acts 8:32]]. The word also appears in an instructional context regarding a woman's appearance, where being **shorn** is presented as a shameful state [[1 Corinthians 11:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the act of shearing:
* `{{G286}}` **amnós** (a lamb): This word is directly connected in the description of a submissive figure being like a **lamb** before its shearer [[Acts 8:32]].
* `{{G3587}}` **xyráō** (to shave or "shear" the hair): Used in parallel with **keírō**, this term highlights a similar action. The two are mentioned together in the instruction that it is a shame for a woman to be shorn or **shaven** [[1 Corinthians 11:6]].
* `{{G4263}}` **próbaton** (a sheep): This term identifies the animal typically associated with shearing. It is used in the prophecy where one is led like a **sheep** to the slaughter, whose silence is compared to a lamb before its shearer [[Acts 8:32]].
* `{{G4967}}` **sphagḗ** (butchery... or (figuratively) of men (destruction)): This word appears alongside the imagery of shearing to describe a sacrificial or destructive end, as in being led like a sheep to the **slaughter** [[Acts 8:32]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2751}}` is seen in its application within specific spiritual contexts.
* **Sacrificial Submission:** The most potent theological image is of the silent lamb before its **shearer** [[Acts 8:32]]. This illustrates a profound theme of non-retaliatory submission in the face of an action that strips one bare.
* **Acts of Devotion:** The act of being **shorn** is explicitly tied to a religious vow in the case of Paul [[Acts 18:18]]. This frames the cutting of hair not as a mundane event, but as an outward sign of a commitment made to God.
* **Symbol of Order:** In the Corinthian church, being **shorn** is presented as a mark of shame for a woman, contrasted with being covered [[1 Corinthians 11:6]]. This usage connects the physical act to concepts of propriety and order within the community of believers.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2751}}` moves beyond its simple definition of "to shear." It functions literally as an act of religious devotion, as in the fulfillment of a vow [[Acts 18:18]]. Figuratively, it becomes a powerful symbol of quiet submission in the face of being stripped bare, as seen in the prophecy of the lamb and its **shearer** [[Acts 8:32]]. The term also carries social and religious weight, where being **shorn** can signify shame and a violation of communal order [[1 Corinthians 11:6]].
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