κεράννυμι

I mix, pour out for drinking

Definition

The verb κεράννυμι means 'to mix' or 'to mingle,' often in the context of combining liquids. In the New Testament, it specifically refers to the act of mixing wine, either with other substances or as part of preparing a drink. In Revelation 14:10, it describes the wine of God's wrath being poured out unmixed, emphasizing its undiluted potency. In Revelation 18:6, it is used metaphorically for mixing a double portion of punishment, highlighting the concept of full retribution.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the New Testament, both times in the book of Revelation. In both instances, it appears in contexts of divine judgment. In Revelation 14:10, it refers to the 'wine of God's wrath, poured out full strength' (unmixed). In Revelation 18:6, it is used in the command to repay Babylon double: 'Mix her a double portion.' The usage is exclusively metaphorical and apocalyptic.

Etymology

Derived from the ancient Greek verb κεράννυμι, meaning 'to mix,' especially to mix wine with water. It is related to the noun κέρας (keras, G2768), meaning 'horn,' as drinking horns were common vessels. The root implies the action of blending or combining, which in Hellenistic culture was standard practice for serving wine.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it is used in Revelation to depict God's judgment. The imagery of unmixed wine (Revelation 14:10) signifies the undiluted, full force of divine wrath, contrasting with the diluted wine typical at meals. The command to 'mix a double portion' (Revelation 18:6) draws on Old Testament principles of proportional justice (e.g., Isaiah 40:2, Jeremiah 16:18), emphasizing the completeness and severity of God's retribution against evil. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading by highlighting the intentional, potent nature of God's final judgment.

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, wine was typically mixed with water before drinking; drinking it unmixed (ἄκρατος) was considered barbaric or a sign of excessive indulgence. The practice also had ritual significance. Therefore, the biblical use of 'mixing' or 'pouring unmixed' would carry strong cultural connotations of either normal practice or, in the case of Revelation 14:10, of something potent, undiluted, and severe.

μίγνυμι (mignymi, G3396) — A more general term for mixing or mingling, used for various substances or crowds. κεράννυμι is more specific to mixing liquids, especially wine.

Word Details

Scripture References