ἀρνίον (arnion)
arnion
lamb
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 29 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek word arnion is a diminutive form meaning "little lamb" or simply "lamb." It appears twenty-nine times in the New Testament, with the vast majority of occurrences found in the Book of Revelation. In John 21:15, Peter uses it when Jesus asks him about his love, while the author of Revelation employs it exclusively to describe the central figure of the apocalyptic vision.
Although the word carries a diminutive suffix, sources note that it lacks any sense of smallness or weakness. Instead, it functions as a title of honor and intimacy. In Revelation 5:6, the Lamb is described with seven horns and seven eyes, portraying a figure of immense power and wisdom rather than vulnerability. This usage transforms a common animal into a profound theological symbol for Christ’s sacrificial death and victorious reign.
The term connects to Old Testament imagery where lambs represent sacrifice and innocence, such as in Jeremiah 11:19. By choosing arnion over the standard word for sheep, the biblical authors emphasize both the gentleness of Jesus’ character and his unique role as the perfect offering who takes away the sin of the world.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word arnion carries a sense of intimacy, referring to a little lamb. In John’s Gospel, Jesus uses it when asking Peter to care for his followers, reminding us that leadership and love are rooted in gentle service. This small term invites you into a relationship where you are known personally by Christ, not just as part of a crowd.
In Revelation, the picture shifts dramatically. The same little lamb stands before the throne with seven horns and eyes, representing full power and wisdom. This contrast shows that true strength in God’s kingdom often looks like sacrificial love. It is a reminder that victory comes through faithfulness, even when the path seems difficult.
Thinking about this image can bring comfort during seasons of uncertainty. You are cared for by one who understands suffering yet reigns with authority. This dual nature of Christ offers both protection and hope, anchoring your trust in his steady character rather than shifting circumstances.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 29 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Lamb14×
- Lamb.8×
- Lamb,3×
- lambs1×
- lamb1×
- as a lamb1×
- a Lamb1×
- Lamb;1×
- Lamb!1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀρνίου8×
- ἀρνίον6×
- ἀρνίου.4×
- ἀρνίῳ3×
- ἀρνίου,3×
- ἀρνίου.¶2×
- ἀρνίον.2×
- ἀρνίῳ·1×
- ἀρνίῳ.1×
- ἀρνία1×
Key Verses
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John 21:15
So when they had eaten their breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I have affection for you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.”
Jesus uses this intimate term to commission Peter, linking pastoral care directly to personal love for Christ.
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Revelation of John 5:6
I saw in the middle of the throne and of the four living creatures, and in the middle of the elders, a Lamb standing, as though it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God, sent out into all the earth.
The lamb is depicted as slain yet standing with seven horns and eyes, merging sacrifice with divine authority.
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Revelation of John 7:17
for the Lamb who is in the middle of the throne shepherds them and leads them to springs of life-giving waters. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.”
This verse highlights the lamb’s role as shepherd who guides believers to life-giving waters and wipes away tears.
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Revelation of John 19:9
He said to me, “Write, ‘Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb.’” He said to me, “These are true words of God.”
The term appears in the context of the wedding supper, symbolizing the intimate union between Christ and his people.