### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun κρημνός (krēmnós, `{{G2911}}`) refers to an "overhanging place," a "precipice," or a "steep bank." Its etymological root lies in the verb κρεμάννυμι (kremannymi, `{{G2910}}`), meaning "to hang" or "to suspend." This etymological connection is crucial, as it conveys the sense of something that hangs over or is suspended above a drop, leading to the meaning of a sheer, abrupt, or precipitous decline. The semantic range thus encompasses any dangerously steep or cliff-like topographical feature.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word κρημνός appears exclusively in the Synoptic Gospels, specifically within the account of Jesus casting out demons from the Gerasene (or Gadarene) demoniac(s). In all three instances, it describes the geographical feature down which the herd of pigs, into which the expelled demons had entered, rushed headlong into the sea:
* In [[Matthew 8:32]], after Jesus permits the demons to enter the pigs, "the whole herd rushed down the steep bank (κρημνός) into the sea and drowned in the water."
* Similarly, [[Mark 5:13]] states, "and the herd rushed down the steep bank (κρημνός) into the sea, about two thousand of them, and were drowned in the sea."
* [[Luke 8:33]] likewise records, "Then the demons came out of the man and entered the pigs, and the herd rushed down the steep bank (κρημνός) into the lake and drowned."
In each context, κρημνός underscores the suddenness, violence, and finality of the pigs' destruction. It is not merely a gentle slope, but a dangerous, abrupt drop, emphasizing the catastrophic end of the demonic presence. The vivid imagery of the herd plunging down this precipice into the water serves to illustrate the complete and irreversible nature of the demons' expulsion and demise.
### Related Words & Concepts
As noted, κρημνός is derived from κρεμάννυμι (kremannymi, `{{G2910}}`), "to hang," which reinforces the image of an overhanging or suspended edge leading to a sudden drop. While κρημνός is unique in its specific description of a precipice leading to a body of water in the New Testament, it relates to other terms describing topography, such as ὄρος (oros, `{{G3735}}`, "mountain") or βουνός (bounos, `{{G1015}}`, "hill"). However, κρημνός specifically denotes a dangerous, sudden decline, rather than a general elevation. Conceptually, it is linked to themes of destruction, judgment, and the overwhelming power of Christ, contrasting with the chaos of the demonic realm and the order established by divine authority.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of κρημνός lies primarily in its role within the narrative of Christ's authority over demonic forces. The "steep bank" serves as the instrument of the demons' rapid and complete destruction.
1. **Divine Judgment and Authority:** The precipice becomes a physical manifestation of God's judgment against evil. The demons, upon expulsion, are not merely banished but are sent to a swift, catastrophic end, utilizing the natural landscape as a means of their demise. This highlights Jesus' absolute authority, not only over spiritual entities but also over the physical world, which bends to His will in the execution of His divine purpose.
2. **Symbolism of Destruction:** The plunge down the κρημνός into the sea (often a biblical symbol of chaos, the abyss, or the realm of evil) represents the utter and irreversible eradication of the demonic influence. It is a powerful visual metaphor for the decisive victory of Christ over the forces of darkness, illustrating that their end is complete and final.
3. **Contrast with Salvation:** The dramatic end of the pigs and the demons stands in stark contrast to the deliverance and restoration of the demoniac(s). The κρημνός facilitates the destruction of evil, thereby magnifying the saving power of Christ. The physical landscape, in its perilous nature, underscores the magnitude of the spiritual victory achieved.
### Summary
κρημνός (krēmnós, `{{G2911}}`) denotes a "precipice" or "steep place," derived from the verb "to hang." Its exclusive New Testament occurrences describe the dramatic and fatal descent of the demon-possessed pigs into the sea in the Gerasene/Gadarene narrative. This word powerfully conveys the suddenness, danger, and finality of their destruction. Theologically, the κρημνός serves as a vivid instrument of divine judgment, emphasizing Christ's supreme authority over evil and illustrating the decisive, irreversible nature of His victory in eradicating demonic influence. It is a stark visual representation of the complete triumph of light over darkness.
TRV