ἀρήν (arēn)
arēn
lamb
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun arēn refers to a young sheep, specifically a lamb. In the New Testament, this word appears only once, in Luke 10:3, where Jesus uses it as a vivid image to describe the vulnerability of his followers.
While the more common Greek word for sheep is probatōn, arēn specifies the younger animal. This distinction highlights fragility and innocence. The sources note that this term often corresponds to Hebrew words like keves in the Septuagint, emphasizing the animal's role in sacrificial contexts or as a symbol of gentle dependence.
Jesus’ command to go out "as lambs among wolves" relies on this specific imagery. A lamb is naturally defenseless and trusting, contrasting sharply with the predatory nature of its surroundings. This single usage underscores the need for divine protection and wisdom in the face of hostility.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word arēn points to a young lamb, an animal defined by its innocence and lack of natural defenses. In Luke 10:3, Jesus uses this specific image when sending out his followers. He does not send them as wolves or strong predators, but as vulnerable lambs among wolves. This choice of imagery acknowledges the real danger they will face while affirming their gentle calling.
For your faith life, this offers a profound comfort. You are not expected to generate your own protection through aggression or self-reliance. Instead, your strength lies in trusting God’s care just as a lamb trusts its shepherd. When you feel exposed or outnumbered by hostility, remember that Jesus knows your fragility and has sent you with His authority.
This passage invites us to walk in humility rather than pride. It reminds us that our mission relies on divine wisdom and protection, not human power. May you find peace in knowing that even in difficult seasons, you are held securely by the One who calls you.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- lambs1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἄρνας1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 10:3
Go your ways. Behold, I send you out as lambs among wolves.
This verse uniquely uses arēn to contrast the followers' inherent vulnerability with the predatory nature of their surroundings, highlighting a call to trust rather than self-defense.