### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **krēmnós**, represented by `{{G2911}}`, refers to an **overhanging** place or a **precipice**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. This term specifically denotes a steep bank or cliff, a feature of the landscape central to a singular, dramatic event recorded in the Gospels.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G2911}}` is exclusively found in the parallel accounts of Jesus casting demons into a herd of swine. The **steep place** is the setting for the herd's destruction. In Matthew’s account, the "whole herd of swine ran violently down a **steep place** into the sea, and perished" [[Matthew 8:32]]. Similarly, Mark describes how "the herd ran violently down a **steep place** into the sea" and were choked [[Mark 5:13]]. Luke's narrative follows the same pattern, stating the herd "ran violently down a **steep** place into the lake, and were choked" [[Luke 8:33]]. In all three instances, the **krēmnós** is the critical location where the destructive power of the exorcised demons is made manifest.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are key to understanding the context surrounding the **steep place**:
* `{{G3729}}` **hormáō** (to start, spur or urge on, i.e. (reflexively) to dash or plunge): This verb captures the violent, unstoppable momentum with which the herd "ran violently" down the precipice [[Mark 5:13]].
* `{{G34}}` **agélē** (a drove): This noun identifies the "herd" of swine, the collective entity that plunges to its destruction from the **steep place** [[Luke 8:33]].
* `{{G2281}}` **thálassa** (the sea): This word denotes the body of water at the bottom of the **krēmnós**, the final destination where the herd perished [[Matthew 8:32]]. In Luke's account, the equivalent destination is the **lake** `{{G3041}}` [[Luke 8:33]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative weight of `{{G2911}}` is tied to its role in a powerful display of spiritual authority and consequence.
* **A Point of No Return:** The **steep place** serves as the physical threshold for the herd's immediate and total destruction. It marks a swift, irreversible descent into ruin.
* **The Consequence of Demonic Presence:** The plunge from the **krēmnós** illustrates the destructive nature of the unclean spirits. Their final act, once cast into the swine, is to drive them to their death over the precipice [[Mark 5:13]].
* **A Tangible Climax:** The **steep place** is the stage for the physical climax of a spiritual confrontation. It is where the supernatural event of exorcism culminates in a visible and catastrophic outcome, demonstrating Jesus' authority [[Matthew 8:32]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2911}}` is a precise geographical term for a **precipice**. Though its usage is rare, it is memorable for its singular context in the Gospels. It functions as the exact location of the destruction of the herd of swine, transforming a simple landscape feature into a powerful symbol of a final, violent plunge resulting from a spiritual cleansing.
TRV