### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **keramikós**, represented by `{{G2764}}`, means **made of clay, i.e. earthen:--of a potter**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its sole use provides a powerful and visceral image of fragility in the face of absolute divine authority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single instance of `{{G2764}}` is found in a declaration of Christ's authority, which He received from the Father. The verse states that he will rule the nations with a rod of iron, and they will be shattered "as the vessels **of a potter**" [[Revelation 2:27]]. This simile emphasizes the complete and effortless destruction of those who oppose divine rule, comparing them to fragile clay pots that are easily broken into pieces.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Revelation 2:27]] illuminate this theme of authority and judgment:
* `{{G4165}}` **poimaínō** (rule): This word means "to tend as a shepherd of (figuratively, superviser):--feed (cattle), rule." It describes the action taken against the nations, highlighting a form of sovereign oversight that includes judgment [[Revelation 2:27]].
* `{{G4464}}` **rhábdos** (rod): Defined as "a stick or wand (as a cudgel, a cane or a baton of royalty)," this is the instrument of rule. It symbolizes authority and power, used elsewhere as a "sceptre of righteousness" [[Hebrews 1:8]].
* `{{G4632}}` **skeûos** (vessel): This word for "vessel, implement, equipment or apparatus" is what is described as being from a potter. It is often used figuratively to refer to people, such as "earthen vessels" [[2 Corinthians 4:7]] or "a chosen vessel" [[Acts 9:15]].
* `{{G4937}}` **syntríbō** (broken to shivers): This verb, meaning "to crush completely, i.e. to shatter," describes the fate of the potter's vessels, signifying an irreversible and total judgment [[Revelation 2:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2764}}` is concentrated in its imagery of judgment and fragility.
* **Divine Authority:** The word is used in a context of Christ exercising authority received from His Father `{{G3962}}`. This authority is absolute, represented by the "rod `{{G4464}}` of iron `{{G4603}}`" which can shatter opposition completely [[Revelation 2:27]].
* **Human Fragility:** The image of a potter's vessel highlights humanity's weakness before God. Other scriptures reinforce this by referring to people as "earthen vessels" [[2 Corinthians 4:7]] and distinguishing between vessels of honor and vessels of wrath [[Romans 9:22]].
* **Irreversible Judgment:** The shattering of pottery is final. This illustrates that the judgment described is not a temporary correction but a complete and final "breaking to shivers" `{{G4937}}` of those who stand against God's rule.
### Summary
In summary, while appearing only once, `{{G2764}}` provides a crucial and memorable illustration. It defines the nature of rebellious humanity as fragile as a potter's vessel when confronted by the supreme and unyielding authority of Christ. This single-use word powerfully conveys a theme of ultimate divine judgment, where resistance is shattered as easily as clay.
TRV