κεραία (keraia)
keraia
tittle
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun keraia refers to a "little horn" or the tiny projecting stroke that distinguishes one Hebrew letter from another. In first-century Jewish scribal practice, these minute details were essential for correct reading, as they separated visually similar characters. Jesus uses this term in Matthew 5:18 and Luke 16:17 to emphasize the absolute permanence of Scripture, declaring that not even the smallest detail of the Law will disappear.
While often translated as "tittle," the word literally describes a physical hook or apex on a letterform. This concrete image underscores the precision with which ancient scribes copied texts. By invoking such a minor feature, the Gospel writers highlight that every aspect of God’s word, no matter how small, carries enduring weight and authority.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word keraia refers to the smallest projecting stroke on a Hebrew letter, often called a tittle. In ancient scribal practice, these tiny hooks were vital for distinguishing one character from another. Jesus used this precise term to show that God’s Word is trustworthy in every detail, no matter how small it may seem.
This reminds us that Scripture is not just a general guide but a careful and enduring record of God’s truth. When we read the Bible, we can trust that even the smallest parts carry weight. This assurance helps us rest in the reliability of God’s promises throughout our daily lives.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- stroke of a pen1×
- stroke of a letter1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- κεραίαν1×
- κεραία1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 5:18
For most certainly, I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not even one smallest letter or one tiny pen stroke shall in any way pass away from the law, until all things are accomplished.
Jesus uses this term to emphasize that not even the smallest detail of the Law will disappear until all things are accomplished.
-
Luke 16:17
But it is easier for heaven and earth to pass away than for one tiny stroke of a pen in the law to fall.
The word highlights the absolute permanence of Scripture by contrasting it with the passing of heaven and earth.