ἄνθραξ (anthrax)
anthrax
charcoal
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek word anthrax refers simply to charcoal or a burning coal. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in Romans 12:20, where Paul quotes Proverbs 25:21-22 about heaping "burning coals" on the head of an enemy.
This image likely evokes the practical reality of hot ashes from a fire. Rather than symbolizing punishment or shame, the act of feeding coals to an enemy suggests care and provision for their basic needs. The physical warmth of the charcoal serves as a metaphor for overcoming evil with good deeds.
The term has uncertain etymological roots but carries clear semantic weight in its single biblical usage. It reminds readers that Christian ethics often involve tangible, practical actions rather than abstract concepts alone.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word anthrax in this context simply means charcoal or burning coal. It appears only once in the New Testament, where Paul encourages believers to respond to hostility with practical kindness. When we feed an enemy or give them water, we are not seeking revenge but offering care.
This image of heaping coals on someone’s head likely refers to providing hot coals for their fire, a tangible act of survival in the ancient world. It transforms a potential moment of conflict into an opportunity for grace. Such actions can melt away resentment and disarm anger through simple, physical generosity.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- coals1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἄνθρακας1×
Key Verses
-
Romans 12:20
Therefore “If your enemy is hungry, feed him. If he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in doing so, you will heap coals of fire on his head.”
This verse uses the term to illustrate how practical provision for an enemy’s needs serves as a powerful response to hostility.