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κέρας

kéras

G2768 noun

SILEX Entry

Definition

A horn, specifically the hard, pointed projection found on the head of certain animals such as cattle, goats, or rams (literal sense); by extension, a projection or horn-like shape, a container made from horn (such as a drinking vessel or a container for oil or perfume); figuratively, a symbol of strength, power, dignity, or authority, especially in prophetic, apocalyptic, or poetic contexts. In architecture, refers to the projecting corners of altars, which were called 'horns.'

Semantic Range

literal animal horn, horn-shaped projection, container or vessel made from horn (e.g., drinking horn), architectural feature (altar horn), symbol of power or authority, metaphor for dignity or strength, ruler/kingdom (apocalyptic literature)

Root / Etymology

From the root κερ- which denotes horn or horn-like shape. The exact Indo-European origin is debated, though likely cognate with Latin 'cornu' and Sanskrit 'śṛṅga.' Not related to hair, despite early speculation; the etymology is based on the physical object rather than growth similar to hair.

Historical & Contextual Notes

In classical and Hellenistic Greek, κέρας was the usual term for a literal animal horn, but also designated any horn-shaped object or container, as well as specific structural features (e.g., corners of altars). Figuratively, it was used from Homeric times onward to signify strength, power, and honor (cf. Homer, Iliad). In the Septuagint, κέρας often renders Hebrew קֶרֶן (qeren), which also carries these literal and figurative senses, sometimes denoting a person's might or a kingdom's power. In apocalyptic literature (e.g., Daniel, Revelation), κέρας is a symbolic image for rulers or powers. English translations commonly use 'horn,' but often fail to convey the breadth of its figurative meanings in original contexts, especially where it functions as a metaphor for authority, political power, or divine blessing. No direct link to 'hair of the head' in Greek usage, so Strong's suggestion of hair is misleading. Contrasts with words like ἄκρα ('summit, headland'), which may be used for non-animal projections.

Translation Consistency

primary "horn" 11 occurrences

κέρας is most commonly and naturally rendered as “horn” in English for its literal sense (animal horn) and extended senses (horn-shaped projection, drinking vessel, altar-horn, symbol of power). The singular base form ‘horn’ provides a consistent root that can be inflected or pluralized as needed while covering both literal and figurative uses in typical contexts.

✓ All renderings match approved senses

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

from a primary (the hair of the head); a horn (literally or figuratively):--horn.

Root Family

κέρας (keras) — horn, projection, point

Root κερ- horn, projection, point

Word Forms

3 distinct forms

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2 Occurrences
G2768-02 κέρατα kerata N ACC N PL horns horns horns 8
G2768-03 κεράτων keraton N GEN N PL horns of horns horns 2
G2768-01 κέρας keras N ACC N SG a horn a horn a horn 1

Occurrences in Scripture

11 occurrences

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2
G2768-01 Luke 1:69 κέρας keras N ACC N SG a horn a horn a horn
G2768-02 Revelation 5:6 κέρατα kerata N ACC N PL horns horns horns
G2768-03 Revelation 9:13 κεράτων keraton N GEN N PL horns of horns of horns
G2768-02 Revelation 12:3 κέρατα kerata N ACC N PL horns horns horns
G2768-02 Revelation 13:1 κέρατα kerata N ACC N PL horns horns horns
G2768-03 Revelation 13:1 κεράτων keraton N GEN N PL horns of horns horns
G2768-02 Revelation 13:11 κέρατα kerata N ACC N PL horns horns horns
G2768-02 Revelation 17:3 κέρατα kerata N ACC N PL horns horns horns
G2768-02 Revelation 17:7 κέρατα kerata N ACC N PL horns horns horns
G2768-02 Revelation 17:12 κέρατα kerata N NOM N PL horns horns horns
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