### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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.
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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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