### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **léōn**, represented by `{{G3023}}`, is a primary word for **lion**. It appears **9 times** in **9 unique verses** and serves as a powerful symbol in scripture. While its literal meaning is straightforward, it is used metaphorically to represent concepts of supreme royal authority, fierce destructive power, and a predatory spiritual adversary.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G3023}}` carries a dual symbolism. It is used as a preeminent title for Christ, "the **Lion** of the tribe of Juda," who has prevailed to open the scroll [[Revelation 5:5]]. Conversely, it depicts a menacing spiritual threat, where the **devil** is described as a "roaring **lion**" that "walketh about, seeking whom he may **devour**" [[1 Peter 5:8]]. The term is also used in apocalyptic visions to describe powerful beings, such as the first **beast** [[Revelation 4:7]] and a composite **beast** with "the mouth of a **lion**" [[Revelation 13:2]], signifying fearsome strength.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help contextualize the symbolic power of the **lion**:
* `{{G1228}}` **diábolos** (devil): This term for a "traducer" or "slanderer" is explicitly identified as the **adversary** who acts like a roaring **lion** [[1 Peter 5:8]].
* `{{G1404}}` **drákōn** (dragon): This "fabulous kind of serpent" is the source of power for the **beast** that has the mouth of a **lion**, linking the lion's ferocity to this ultimate figure of evil [[Revelation 13:2]].
* `{{G2226}}` **zōon** (beast): This word for a "live thing" or "animal" is used to describe the four living creatures before God's throne, the first of which is like a **lion** [[Revelation 4:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3023}}` is primarily seen in its contrasting representations of Christ and Satan.
* **Messianic Authority:** The title "the **Lion** of the tribe of Juda" points to Christ's royal lineage and unconquerable power, establishing His unique authority to execute God's redemptive plan [[Revelation 5:5]].
* **Predatory Adversary:** The image of a prowling, roaring **lion** serves as a stark warning about the nature of the **devil**, who is an active and dangerous enemy to believers [[1 Peter 5:8]].
* **Symbol of Ferocity:** In the visions of Revelation, lion-like features such as teeth [[Revelation 9:8]] and heads [[Revelation 9:17]] are used to symbolize the terrifying and destructive nature of apocalyptic forces.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3023}}` is far more than a simple animal. It is a potent symbol of power and ferocity within the New Testament. It uniquely represents both the supreme, victorious authority of Christ and the relentless, destructive intent of the devil. The imagery of the **lion** serves to illustrate the immense stakes of the spiritual conflict depicted in scripture.
TRV