### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kýōn**, represented by `{{G2965}}`, is the primary word for **dog**. It appears 5 times in 5 unique verses in the Bible. While it can be used literally, it is frequently employed in a figurative sense to denote individuals who are impure, vile, or hostile to the things of God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G2965}}` carries strong, often negative, connotations. The one literal use appears in the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, where **dogs** came and licked the sores of the beggar [[Luke 16:21]]. Figuratively, it serves as a potent warning; Jesus instructs his followers not to give what is holy to the **dogs** [[Matthew 7:6]]. Paul echoes this by telling the Philippians to "beware of **dogs**," associating the term with evil workers [[Philippians 3:2]]. The word is also used in a proverb to describe those who return to their old ways, stating, "The **dog** is turned to his own vomit again" [[2 Peter 2:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to frame the context in which `{{G2965}}` is used:
* `{{G5519}}` **choîros** (swine): This word for a hog appears alongside **dogs** in Jesus's warning against giving holy things to those who will not value them, as they may "trample them under their feet" [[Matthew 7:6]].
* `{{G5300}}` **hŷs** (sow): This term is used in the proverb that also mentions a **dog**, illustrating a return to corruption: "the **sow** that was washed to her wallowing in the mire" [[2 Peter 2:22]].
* `{{G5333}}` **phármakos** (sorcerer): This term refers to one of the types of people classified with **dogs** as being "without" the holy city in the book of Revelation [[Revelation 22:15]].
* `{{G4486}}` **rhḗgnymi** (to rend): This word describes the violent action the **dogs** and swine might take if given something holy, warning that they may "turn again and **rend** you" [[Matthew 7:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2965}}` is significant, serving as a symbol for unrighteousness and exclusion.
* **Impurity and Profanity:** The term is used to identify those who would defile what is sacred. The command not to give "that which is holy unto the **dogs**" establishes them as a symbol for the profane [[Matthew 7:6]].
* **Hostility to the Gospel:** Paul's warning to "beware of **dogs**" frames them as dangerous opponents to the faith, equating them with "evil workers" and "the concision" [[Philippians 3:2]].
* **Exclusion from God's Kingdom:** In the final chapter of Revelation, **dogs** are listed among those who are shut out of the New Jerusalem, alongside sorcerers, murderers, and idolaters [[Revelation 22:15]].
* **Apostasy:** The imagery of a **dog** returning to its vomit is used to illustrate the state of those who, after knowing the way of righteousness, turn back to their former corruption [[2 Peter 2:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2965}}` is a term that moves from a literal animal to a powerful figurative symbol. While its literal usage is rare, its metaphorical application is sharp and consistent. It serves as a biblical shorthand for those who are vicious, impure, and ultimately excluded from the presence of God, representing a rejection of holiness and a return to corruption.
TRV