### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ourá**, represented by `{{G3769}}`, is the term for **tail**. It appears 5 times across 3 unique verses, exclusively within the prophetic imagery of the book of Revelation. While its literal definition is simple, its biblical usage portrays it as an instrument of significant power and destruction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical context, `{{G3769}}` is consistently associated with formidable, supernatural beings. The **tail** of the great **dragon** `{{G1404}}` is powerful enough to **draw** `{{G4951}}` a third of the **stars** `{{G792}}` from **heaven** `{{G3772}}` and cast them to the **earth** `{{G1093}}` [[Revelation 12:4]]. In another vision, locust-like creatures possess **tails** like **scorpions** `{{G4651}}`, and their ability to **hurt** `{{G91}}` mankind resides within these appendages [[Revelation 9:10]]. This power is further described in the appearance of mystical horses whose **tails** are like **serpents** `{{G3789}}` with **heads** `{{G2776}}`, used to inflict harm [[Revelation 9:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the symbolic meaning of the **tail** in these passages:
* `{{G1404}}` **drákōn** (dragon): The **tail** is an appendage of the **dragon**, a figure identified as Satan [[Revelation 12:9]]. This word means a "fabulous kind of serpent," linking the **tail** to a monstrous and deceptive entity.
* `{{G1849}}` **exousía** (authority, power): This term for "delegated influence" is explicitly located in the creatures' **tails** ([[Revelation 9:10]], [[Revelation 9:19]]). This shows the **tail** is not merely a limb but a vessel of destructive **power**.
* `{{G2759}}` **kéntron** (sting): The ability to harm is specified by the presence of **stings** in the **tails** of the scorpion-like beings [[Revelation 9:10]]. A **sting** signifies a source of poison or a goad for inflicting pain.
* `{{G91}}` **adikéō** (to hurt, do wrong): This verb describes the primary function of the **tails** in Revelation chapters 9. Their **power** `{{G1849}}` is specifically to **hurt** or "do wrong" to **men** `{{G444}}`, defining the malevolent nature of their purpose ([[Revelation 9:10]], [[Revelation 9:19]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3769}}` is centered on its role in apocalyptic symbolism.
* **Instrument of Cosmic Disruption:** The **dragon's tail** acts with immense force, casting **stars** `{{G792}}` from **heaven** `{{G3772}}`, symbolizing a great rebellion and upheaval affecting the celestial order [[Revelation 12:4]].
* **Source of Demonic Power:** The **power** `{{G1849}}` of the demonic locusts and horses is concentrated in their **tails**. This highlights that the source of their ability to torment humanity is an extension of their corrupt nature, functioning as a weapon ([[Revelation 9:10]], [[Revelation 9:19]]).
* **Symbol of Deception and Harm:** By being likened to **serpents** `{{G3789}}` with **heads** `{{G2776}}`, the **tails** embody both cunning deception and the capacity to injure, echoing the traits of the "old **serpent**" [[Revelation 12:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3769}}` **ourá** transcends its simple definition of **tail** to become a potent symbol in biblical prophecy. Though used sparingly, it consistently represents the extension of evil power, an instrument of deception, and a weapon used by satanic forces to disrupt order and inflict torment upon humanity. It demonstrates how an ordinary anatomical feature can be imbued with profound theological significance within visionary literature.
TRV