The Greek word kéras, represented by G2768, refers to a horn, used both literally and figuratively. It appears 11 times across 10 unique verses in the Bible. The term primarily symbolizes power, authority, and strength, and is used to describe both divine and earthly entities.
In biblical usage, G2768 is most prominent in the book of Revelation, where it denotes the power of prophetic figures. The Lamb is depicted as having seven horns, representing the seven Spirits of God Revelation 5:6. In contrast, adversarial powers like the great red dragon Revelation 12:3 and the beast from the sea Revelation 13:1 are described with multiple horns, symbolizing their dominion. Beyond this apocalyptic imagery, the word is used in a Messianic context, where God has "raised up an horn of salvation for us" in the house of David Luke 1:69.
Several related words help clarify the symbolic meaning of G2768:
- G1849 exousía (power, authority): This term is directly connected to the meaning of horns. The ten horns on the beast are explicitly stated to receive power as kings Revelation 17:12.
- G935 basileús (king): The horns are directly interpreted as rulers. The ten horns seen in the vision are explained to be ten kings Revelation 17:12.
- G2342 thēríon (dangerous animal): Horns are a defining feature of the prophetic beasts in Revelation. A beast rises from the sea having ten horns Revelation 13:1, and another from the earth has two horns Revelation 13:11.
- G4991 sōtēría (salvation): This word is joined with G2768 to form a powerful metaphor for deliverance, the "horn of salvation" Luke 1:69, signifying mighty rescue.
The theological weight of G2768 is centered on the concept of power and its source.
- Symbol of Authority and Kingship: Horns consistently represent sovereign power. They are explicitly identified as kings G935 who receive power G1849 Revelation 17:12, and they are seen adorned with crowns G1238 Revelation 13:1.
- Embodiment of Divine Power: The word is not exclusively negative. The Lamb is described as having seven horns, which are identified with the seven Spirits of God sent into the earth, signifying complete divine authority and presence Revelation 5:6.
- Figurative Source of Salvation: In a key Messianic prophecy, G2768 is used to describe the coming of a savior. God is said to have "raised up an horn of salvation" G4991 from the house of David Luke 1:69, representing a mighty source of deliverance.
In summary, G2768 kéras is a potent biblical symbol for power and authority. While it can literally refer to an animal's horn, its figurative usage is far more significant, especially in prophecy. It represents kings and their dominion, as seen on the beasts of Revelation Revelation 17:12. The term carries a profound duality, used to depict the complete divine authority of the Lamb Revelation 5:6 as well as the delegated power of worldly figures. Ultimately, kéras also serves as a metaphor for God's mighty deliverance, as the "horn of salvation" Luke 1:69.
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