### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kerátion**, represented by `{{G2769}}`, is defined as a **husk**, specifically the pod of the carob-tree. It appears only **1 time** in the Bible, in a single verse. The word's origin suggests "something horned," which reflects the shape of the pod it describes.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G2769}}` is in the parable of the prodigal son. In a state of utter destitution, the son "would fain have filled his belly with the **husks** that the swine did eat" [[Luke 15:16]]. This context powerfully illustrates his degradation, as he longed for food considered fit only for pigs. His desperation is further emphasized by the fact that even this base sustenance was denied to him, as the verse concludes, "and no man gave unto him" [[Luke 15:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its biblical context in [[Luke 15:16]] illuminate the son's desperate situation:
* `{{G1937}}` **epithyméō** (to set the heart upon, i.e. long for): This shows the intensity of the son's desire for the husks. He didn't just want them; he longed for them, setting his heart upon them in his hunger.
* `{{G1072}}` **gemízō** (to fill entirely): The son wished to **fill** his belly, indicating a deep and painful emptiness that he sought to remedy with the swine's food.
* `{{G5519}}` **choîros** (a hog): The food was for **swine**, animals considered unclean. This detail establishes the son's rock-bottom social and ceremonial status.
* `{{G1325}}` **dídōmi** (to give): This verb is used to show his complete isolation. While God is shown to **give** his Son [[John 3:16]] and good gifts [[Matthew 7:7]], in this moment of need, "no man" would **give** anything to the son.
### Theological Significance
The theological and narrative weight of `{{G2769}}` is significant despite its single use.
* **Symbol of Degradation:** The **husks** are the ultimate symbol of a fallen state. They represent a "food" that cannot truly nourish and is associated with uncleanness, highlighting the spiritual famine the son experiences away from his father.
* **The World's Emptiness:** The son's desire to fill his belly with `{{G2769}}` illustrates the attempt to find satisfaction in the empty offerings of the world. His hunger remained, and no one would give to him, showing the world's inability to meet our deepest needs.
* **Catalyst for Repentance:** It is at this lowest point, craving food for **swine** `{{G5519}}`, that the son "came to himself" and decided to return to his father. The worthlessness of the husks serves as the turning point that initiates the story's powerful arc of redemption and grace.
### Summary
In summary, **kerátion** `{{G2769}}` is far more than a simple word for a pod. In its single, poignant appearance, it functions as a powerful symbol of utter destitution, spiritual emptiness, and the worthless nature of what the world offers in comparison to the father's grace. The image of a son longing for these **husks** provides a stark picture of the desperation from which repentance and restoration spring.
TRV