διάδημα
a head-wreath, crown
Definition
Διάδημα refers to a royal crown, specifically a diadem or headband worn as a symbol of sovereignty and authority. Unlike the στέφανος (stephanos, G4735), which is often a victor's wreath, the διάδημα denotes kingly or imperial power. In the New Testament, it is used exclusively in Revelation to describe the crowns worn by symbolic, oppressive rulers: the great red dragon (Revelation 12:3), the beast from the sea (Revelation 13:1), and finally, the true and righteous King, Jesus Christ, who wears 'many diadems' (Revelation 19:12).
Biblical Usage
This word appears only three times, all in the Book of Revelation. Its usage is highly symbolic, marking entities that claim supreme authority. It is first applied to the dragon (Satan), then to the beast (a tyrannical political power), establishing a pattern of illegitimate, usurped sovereignty. The final and climactic use is for Christ, whose many diadems represent His absolute, legitimate, and victorious kingship over all rival powers.
Etymology
Derived from the preposition διά (dia, 'through, around') and the root δέω (deō, 'to bind'). It literally means 'that which is bound around,' referring to a cloth or metal band fastened around the head. This distinguishes it from other crown words, emphasizing its function as a encircling symbol of rule.
Semantic Range
Διάδημα is theologically significant as it distinguishes between types of authority in the cosmic conflict depicted in Revelation. It highlights the contrast between the usurped, blasphemous sovereignty of Satan and his agents and the true, divine kingship of Jesus Christ. Understanding this term enriches the reading of Revelation by clarifying that the conflict is ultimately about who rightfully wears the crown of ultimate authority.
In the Greco-Roman world, a διάδημα was a blue band embroidered with white, worn by Hellenistic kings and later by Roman emperors as a primary emblem of royal office. It was not a laurel wreath for athletic victory but a direct symbol of ruling power. John's original readers would have immediately associated it with imperial authority, making its application to the dragon, beast, and Christ profoundly subversive and clear.
στέφανος (stephanos, G4735) — A wreath or crown denoting victory, honor, or reward, not inherent royal office.
Word Details
How this works
Definitions are from the Dodson Greek-English Lexicon, a concise public-domain resource suitable for introductory word study. Brief glosses are supplemented by STEPBible TBESG data (CC BY 4.0). For advanced research, standard scholarly references include BDAG (Danker, 3rd ed.) and LSJ.
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