κτῆνος (ktēnos)
ktēnos
animal
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 4 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek word ktēnos refers broadly to an animal, but with a specific focus on domesticated beasts used by humans. Its root connects to possession or property, highlighting that these creatures were viewed as valuable assets rather than wild entities. In the New Testament, it most commonly denotes a beast of burden, such as a horse, mule, or donkey, capable of carrying loads or being ridden.
This term appears in four key passages, illustrating its practical usage. In Luke 10:34, the Good Samaritan places the injured man on his own ktēnos, emphasizing the animal's role in transport and care. Similarly, Acts 23:24 mentions soldiers providing a ktēnos for Paul’s safe journey to safety, while Revelation 18:13 lists them among traded goods, underscoring their economic value. In 1 Corinthians 15:39, Paul uses the word to distinguish land animals from fish and birds, showing its use in biological categorization.
Translators typically render ktēnos as "animal" or "beast," though context often clarifies whether a specific working animal is meant. The word’s emphasis on utility and ownership reflects ancient societal structures where livestock were central to daily life and commerce. Its limited but varied usage across the New Testament reveals how integral these animals were to both physical travel and theological illustration.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word ktēnos points to domesticated animals used for work or transport, such as donkeys or horses. In Luke 10:34, the Good Samaritan places the injured traveler on his own animal to carry him to safety. This simple act shows how God uses ordinary means to show care. The animal becomes a tool of mercy, helping the Samaritan reach the inn and provide rest for the wounded man.
Paul also uses this term in 1 Corinthians 15:39 to distinguish between human flesh and the flesh of animals. He highlights that each type of creature has its own place in God’s creation. This distinction reminds us that while we share life with other creatures, humans hold a unique role as image-bearers of God.
Understanding ktēnos helps us see how everyday things serve God’s purposes. Whether carrying a traveler or illustrating a theological point, these animals play a part in the biblical story. We can trust that God uses all of creation to reveal His wisdom and care for His people.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 4 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- of beasts,1×
- cattle1×
- beast1×
- Mounts1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- κτήνη2×
- κτῆνος1×
- κτηνῶν,1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 10:34
came to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. He set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him.
The Samaritan uses his animal to transport the injured man, showing how ktēnos serves as a practical means of mercy and rescue.
-
I Corinthians 15:39
All flesh is not the same flesh, but there is one flesh of men, another flesh of animals, another of fish, and another of birds.
Paul contrasts human flesh with the flesh of ktēnos to emphasize the distinct nature of different living creatures in God's order.
-
Revelation of John 18:13
and cinnamon, incense, perfume, frankincense, wine, olive oil, fine flour, wheat, cattle, sheep, horses, chariots, and people’s bodies and souls.
Horses and cattle are listed among traded goods, highlighting the economic value and ownership associated with ktēnos in ancient commerce.