### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kerameús**, represented by `{{G2763}}`, refers to a **potter**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is used both literally to identify a specific location and metaphorically to illustrate God's sovereign authority over His creation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its primary occurrences, `{{G2763}}` serves two distinct functions. In Matthew's Gospel, it identifies the "potter's field," which the chief priests took counsel to buy with the money from Judas's betrayal, intending it as a place to bury strangers [[Matthew 27:7]]. This act fulfilled what the Lord had appointed, as the money was given for the **potter's** field [[Matthew 27:10]]. In Romans, the word is used metaphorically to affirm God's sovereignty, asking rhetorically if the **potter** does not have power over the clay to make one vessel for honour and another for dishonour from the same lump [[Romans 9:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the role and actions of the **potter**:
* `{{G4081}}` **pēlós** (clay): This is the raw material that the potter shapes. The potter's absolute power is exercised over the **clay** [[Romans 9:21]].
* `{{G1849}}` **exousía** (authority): This term describes the mastery and right the potter possesses. The central argument in Romans 9 hinges on the **potter's** unquestionable **authority** over his work [[Romans 9:21]].
* `{{G4632}}` **skeûos** (vessel): This is the object created by the potter, which can be made for distinct purposes like honour or dishonour [[Romans 9:21]].
* `{{G68}}` **agrós** (field): In the narrative of Matthew, this word specifies the plot of land purchased, which was known as the potter's **field** [[Matthew 27:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2763}}` is significant, particularly in its metaphorical use.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The image of the **potter** is a clear illustration of God's absolute right and power `{{G1849}}` over His creation. He can make `{{G4160}}` from the same lump `{{G5445}}` a vessel `{{G4632}}` for any purpose He chooses [[Romans 9:21]].
* **Prophetic Fulfillment:** The purchase of the **potter's** field `{{G68}}` is explicitly noted as an action appointed `{{G4929}}` by the Lord `{{G2962}}`, demonstrating that even the tragic events surrounding the crucifixion were within the scope of God's ordained plan [[Matthew 27:10]].
* **Purpose in Creation:** The potter's work demonstrates that different vessels are made for different destinies—one for honour `{{G5092}}` and another for dishonour `{{G819}}`. This is used to explain the concepts of divine election and purpose [[Romans 9:21]].
### Summary
In summary, **kerameús** `{{G2763}}` is a term with both literal and profound metaphorical significance. While it literally identifies a location tied to the consequences of Christ's betrayal, its greater theological contribution is as an image of God as the master **potter**. This metaphor powerfully conveys His absolute sovereignty, His right to create for His own purposes, and the fulfillment of His divine will.
TRV