κεραμικός (keramikos)
keramikos
made of clay
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective keramikos describes something that is earthen or made of clay. Derived from the word for pottery (keramos), it functions as a descriptive term for materials shaped by human hands, specifically in the context of vessels created by a potter.
This word appears only once in the New Testament, in Revelation 2:27. There, it modifies "scepter" to describe the authority given to the victorious believer. The imagery evokes an iron rod that shatters earthenware jars, contrasting the durability of metal with the fragility of clay. This usage highlights a stark difference in strength and permanence between the ruler’s power and the vessel’s nature.
While the term itself is simple, its application in Revelation carries significant weight. By specifying an earthen scepter, the text emphasizes the absolute control the victor holds over fragile opposition. The choice of this specific descriptor reinforces the theme of divine judgment and the ultimate subjugation of earthly powers under heavenly authority.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word keramikos describes something made of clay, highlighting the fragility of earthly things against enduring strength. In Revelation 2:27, it contrasts the shattering power of an iron rod with the brittleness of clay pots. This imagery reminds us that human resistance to God’s authority is temporary and weak.
For your faith, this offers a profound comfort. The struggles you face against opposition or inner doubt are like fragile vessels compared to the unshakeable rule of Christ. He holds absolute control, ensuring that no force can ultimately defeat His purposes. You can rest in the certainty that His strength is far greater than any challenge before you.
This assurance invites peace rather than fear. When life feels unstable, remember that the One who rules with power also offers grace to those who remain faithful. Your trust in Him anchors you in a reality that cannot be broken.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- potter1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- κεραμικὰ1×
Key Verses
-
Revelation of John 2:27
He will rule them with a rod of iron, shattering them like clay pots, as I also have received of my Father;
This verse uses keramikos to contrast the durability of Christ's iron rule with the fragility of clay pots, emphasizing His absolute authority over opposition.