θρόνος (thronos)
thronos
throne
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 52 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek word thronos refers to a throne, specifically a stately seat of authority rather than a simple chair. Derived from a root meaning "to sit," it denotes the official position of power held by kings and judges. In the New Testament, this term appears fifty-two times, with a heavy concentration in Revelation, where it anchors the vision of cosmic governance.
While thronos can describe earthly seats, such as Satan’s stronghold in Pergamum (Revelation 2:13), its primary theological weight lies in its application to God and Christ. It signifies sovereign rule, appearing in passages like Luke 1:32 where Jesus is promised the throne of his father David. The term also extends metaphorically to angelic hierarchies (Colossians 1:16) and the apostles’ future role in judging Israel (Matthew 19:28).
Translators typically render thronos as "throne," preserving its sense of majestic authority. The word often carries metonymic force, standing not just for the physical object but for the kingly power or sovereignty itself. This usage connects the New Testament directly to the Hebrew concept of God’s kingship, emphasizing that divine rule is established on a fixed, unshakeable seat.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word thronos points to a seat of established authority, far more than just furniture. In Scripture it anchors the reality that God rules with purpose and stability. When you read about Jesus sitting on David’s throne or the Father’s throne in heaven, the text is affirming that His reign is secure and unshakeable. This truth offers deep comfort when earthly circumstances feel chaotic or uncertain.
Hebrews 4:16 invites us to approach this throne of grace with boldness. We do not come to a distant judge but to a place where mercy and help are readily available for our daily needs. The imagery reminds us that our access to God is grounded in His sovereign love, not our own performance.
Ultimately, the throne represents hope. Revelation promises that those who remain faithful will share in Christ’s rule. This future assurance encourages us to live with integrity today, knowing that justice and peace will fully prevail under His reign.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 52 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- throne45×
- thrones7×
- throne.2×
- throne,2×
- a throne2×
- [the] throne2×
- thrones,1×
- throne;1×
- throne [of]1×
- a throne,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- θρόνου31×
- θρόνῳ7×
- θρόνον7×
- θρόνος5×
- θρόνους4×
- θρόνων2×
- θρόνου.2×
- θρόνῳ·1×
- θρόνῳ,1×
- θρόνους,1×
- θρόνου,1×
- θρόνος,1×
Key Verses
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Hebrews 4:16
Let’s therefore draw near with boldness to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and may find grace for help in time of need.
This verse redefines the throne not as a place of judgment to fear, but as a source of grace and timely help for believers.
-
Luke 1:32
He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David,
The promise that Jesus will receive the throne of David connects His royal authority directly to God’s covenant faithfulness with Israel.
-
Revelation of John 4:2
Immediately I was in the Spirit. Behold, there was a throne set in heaven, and one sitting on the throne
John’s vision establishes the throne as the central focal point of heaven, emphasizing God’s eternal sovereignty over all creation.
-
Matthew 19:28
Jesus said to them, “Most certainly I tell you that you who have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of Man will sit on the throne of his glory, you also will sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
Jesus links His own glorious throne to the future role of His followers, showing that discipleship has an eternal dimension of shared authority.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does thronos mean in the New Testament?
How is the throne of God different from earthly thrones?
Why do believers approach the throne of grace?
Every Occurrence (52 verses across 6 books)
Matthew 4 verses
but I tell you, don’t swear at all: neither by heaven, for it is the throne of God;
Matthew 19:28Jesus said to them, “Most certainly I tell you that you who have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of Man…
Matthew 23:22He who swears by heaven, swears by the throne of God and by him who sits on it.
Matthew 25:31“But when the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then he will sit on the throne of his…