### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun κεράτιον (kerátion) `{{G2769}}` is a diminutive form derived from κέρας (keras) `{{G2768}}`, which means "horn." Thus, its literal meaning is "little horn" or "something horned." This descriptive term was specifically applied to the pod of the carob tree (*Ceratonia siliqua*), due to its distinctive curved, horn-like shape. While often translated as "husk" in older English versions, this can be misleading. A "husk" typically implies an inedible outer covering, whereas the carob pod, though coarse and often used as animal fodder, was indeed eaten by the very poor during times of scarcity. Its semantic range, therefore, extends from its literal etymological root describing shape to its specific application as a low-value foodstuff.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term κεράτιον (kerátion) `{{G2769}}` appears only once in the New Testament, in the poignant Parable of the Prodigal Son:
* [[Luke 15:16]]: "And he was longing to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, and no one was giving anything to him."
In this sole occurrence, the word powerfully underscores the depth of the prodigal son's destitution. Having squandered his inheritance and fallen into abject poverty, he finds himself in a foreign land, reduced to feeding pigs—an occupation considered unclean for a Jew. His hunger is so profound that he yearns for the κεράτιον (kerátion), the carob pods, which were the meager sustenance of the swine. This detail highlights not merely hunger, but extreme degradation and desperation. The fact that "no one was giving anything to him" further emphasizes his complete isolation and the severity of his plight, setting the stage for his repentance and return to his father's house.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is κέρας (keras) `{{G2768}}`, the root word meaning "horn." This etymological connection illuminates the physical appearance of the carob pod, providing a vivid image for the ancient hearer. Conceptually, κεράτιον (kerátion) `{{G2769}}` is intrinsically linked to themes of:
* **Poverty and Destitution:** It represents the lowest possible economic and social standing, a state of utter lack.
* **Hunger and Famine:** The longing for such meager food signifies extreme physical deprivation.
* **Degradation and Uncleanliness:** Being reduced to eating with pigs, and desiring their food, points to a profound loss of dignity and a fall into an unclean state according to Jewish law.
* **Consequences of Sin:** The son's state of wanting κεράτιον (kerátion) is a direct result of his rebellious choices and separation from his father's provision.
### Theological Significance
The single use of κεράτιον (kerátion) `{{G2769}}` in [[Luke 15:16]] carries immense theological weight within the Parable of the Prodigal Son.
1. **The Depth of Humanity's Fall:** The son's desire for carob pods vividly illustrates the utter spiritual destitution of humanity when separated from God. Just as the son was alienated from his father's abundance, so too are individuals alienated from divine provision through sin, left to consume that which cannot truly satisfy.
2. **The Emptiness of Worldly Pursuits:** The "far country" represents the world apart from God. The κεράτιον (kerátion) symbolizes the empty promises and unsatisfying "food" that the world offers, which ultimately leaves one starving and degraded.
3. **Catalyst for Repentance:** The extreme hunger and degradation experienced by the son, wanting even the κεράτιον (kerátion) of pigs, becomes the turning point. This profound realization of his dire state ("he came to his senses") prompts his repentance and decision to return to his father. It underscores that sometimes the depths of human suffering are necessary to bring about a realization of one's need for God's grace.
4. **Contrast with Divine Abundance:** The κεράτιον (kerátion) stands in stark contrast to the lavish feast, the fatted calf, and the abundance found in the father's house. This highlights the overflowing grace, provision, and restoration offered by God to those who return to Him, regardless of how far they have fallen.
### Summary
The Greek word κεράτιον (kerátion) `{{G2769}}`, meaning "little horn" and specifically referring to the carob pod, appears only once in the New Testament in [[Luke 15:16]]. In the Parable of the Prodigal Son, it powerfully depicts the son's extreme destitution, hunger, and degradation as he longs for the meager food of pigs. Theologically, κεράτιον (kerátion) serves as a potent symbol of the emptiness and spiritual starvation experienced when one is separated from God's provision. This dire state, represented by the yearning for carob pods, acts as a crucial catalyst for repentance, prompting the prodigal son's return to the boundless grace and abundance of his father's house.
TRV