The Greek word keraía, represented by G2762, refers to something horn-like, and is used figuratively to mean the apex of a Hebrew letter or the least particle, translated as tittle. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, signifying its specific and impactful use.
The term G2762 is used to emphasize the permanence and unshakeable authority of God's law. In Matthew 5:18, it is stated that not even "one jot or one tittle" will pass from the law until all is fulfilled, placing its endurance above that of heaven and earth. Similarly, Luke 16:17 reinforces this by declaring it is easier for heaven and earth to pass away than for one tittle of the law to fail. In both instances, it represents the smallest, most minute detail of the scriptures.
Several related words provide context for the significance of keraía:
- G2503 iōta (jot): This is the name of the eighth letter of the Greek alphabet and is used figuratively for a very small part of anything. It appears alongside tittle to denote the smallest details of the law Matthew 5:18.
- G3551 nómos (law): This word refers to law, regulation, and prescriptive usage, especially the law of Moses. The tittle is a particle of this law, highlighting its completeness Luke 16:17.
- G3772 ouranós (heaven): This term for the sky or the abode of God is used as a benchmark for something vast and seemingly permanent, yet it is described as less enduring than the law Matthew 5:18.
- G1093 gē (earth): Representing the solid part of the globe, earth is paired with heaven to represent the entire created order, which will pass away before the smallest detail of the law does Luke 16:17.
The theological weight of G2762 is focused on the nature of God's Word.
- Enduring Authority of Scripture: The primary point is that the law G3551 is immutable. The survival of even the smallest tittle is guaranteed until its purpose is fulfilled Matthew 5:18.
- Divine Meticulousness: The mention of a tittle, the smallest stroke of a letter, shows that no part of God's revelation is insignificant. Every detail is intentional and preserved.
- Supremacy over Creation: By contrasting the passing of heaven G3772 and earth G1093 with the permanence of the law, scripture's authority is established as being greater and more stable than the physical universe itself Luke 16:17.
In summary, G2762 keraía functions as a powerful figurative term for the "least particle." Though used only twice, it makes a profound statement about the absolute integrity and permanence of the law of God. It teaches that every detail of scripture is divinely intended and more enduring than the created cosmos.
TRV