### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ktēnos**, represented by `{{G2934}}`, refers to a **domestic animal** or **property**. Derived from a word meaning "to acquire," it primarily denotes a beast of burden or livestock. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**, illustrating its specific and practical application in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G2934}}` consistently points to domesticated animals serving human needs. It is used to describe the **beast** the Good Samaritan used to transport an injured man to safety [[Luke 10:34]]. Similarly, **beasts** were provided for the Apostle Paul's journey to Felix the governor, highlighting their role in transportation [[Acts 23:24]]. The word also appears in a list of commercial goods traded by Babylon, where **beasts** are itemized alongside other livestock like sheep and horses, indicating their economic value [[Revelation 18:13]]. Finally, it is used in a categorical sense to distinguish the flesh of **beasts** from that of humans, fishes, and birds [[1 Corinthians 15:39]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context and classification of `{{G2934}}`:
* `{{G4561}}` **sárx** (flesh): This word provides the framework for understanding `{{G2934}}` in [[1 Corinthians 15:39]], where the Apostle Paul differentiates the **flesh** of men from the **flesh** of **beasts**.
* `{{G4263}}` **próbaton** (a sheep): This term appears directly alongside **beasts** in the list of Babylon's merchandise, identifying a specific type of domestic animal [[Revelation 18:13]].
* `{{G2462}}` **híppos** (a horse): Like sheep, **horses** are listed with **beasts** as items of commerce, further specifying the kinds of animals included in this category [[Revelation 18:13]].
* `{{G2486}}` **ichthýs** (a fish): This word is used in contrast to `{{G2934}}` to establish a distinct category of creature with its own kind of flesh [[1 Corinthians 15:39]].
* `{{G4421}}` **ptēnón** (a bird): Also used in contrast to `{{G2934}}`, this term helps classify the animal kingdom by separating land animals from **birds** [[1 Corinthians 15:39]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G2934}}` is grounded in its practical and categorical applications.
* **Beasts of Burden:** The word underscores the essential role of domestic animals in daily life, particularly for transportation and aid, as seen in the narratives of the Good Samaritan and Paul's journey ([[Luke 10:34]], [[Acts 23:24]]).
* **Economic Asset:** Its inclusion as a form of merchandise in [[Revelation 18:13]] establishes **ktēnos** as a form of property and a key component of trade and wealth in the ancient world.
* **Natural Classification:** The term helps to structure the created order by distinguishing land-based domestic animals from other forms of life, such as humans, sea creatures, and birds [[1 Corinthians 15:39]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2934}}` is a functional term for a domestic animal. While not carrying deep theological weight on its own, its use provides insight into daily life, commerce, and the biblical understanding of the natural world. It consistently refers to animals in service to humanity, whether as a means of transport, a commercial good, or a distinct category of God's creation.
TRV