κύκλος

a circle

Definition

The Greek word κύκλος (kyklos) primarily means 'a circle' or 'ring,' but in the New Testament, it is used metaphorically to describe a surrounding group of people or a geographical region. In its literal sense, it refers to a circular shape, as seen in Revelation 4:6 and 7:11, where it describes a circle or ring around God's throne. Figuratively, it denotes those sitting 'around' someone, such as the disciples and others gathered around Jesus (Mark 3:34, Luke 9:12). It can also indicate a surrounding area or region, as when Paul says he has preached the gospel 'in a circle' from Jerusalem to Illyricum (Romans 15:19), meaning throughout that broad region.

Biblical Usage

Κύκλος appears seven times in the New Testament, used in Gospels, an Epistle, and Revelation. In the Gospels (Mark 3:34, 6:6, 6:36; Luke 9:12), it consistently describes people gathered in a circle around Jesus, emphasizing physical proximity and attentive listening. In Romans 15:19, Paul uses it geographically to outline the extent of his missionary work. In Revelation (4:6, 7:11), it refers to the circular arrangement around God's throne, highlighting heavenly order and worship.

Etymology

Derived from the ancient Greek κύκλος (kyklos), meaning 'circle,' 'ring,' or 'wheel.' It is related to the verb κυκλόω (kykloō, G2944), meaning 'to encircle' or 'surround.' The root conveys the idea of circular motion or form, and it is the source of English words like 'cycle' and 'circle.'

Semantic Range

While κύκλος itself is a common noun, its usage in Revelation to describe the arrangement around God's throne (Revelation 4:6, 7:11) contributes to the imagery of divine order, majesty, and the worship of the heavenly court. In the Gospels, its use for those sitting around Jesus (e.g., Mark 3:34) can enrich our understanding of Jesus as a central, teaching figure surrounded by his community of followers.

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, the circle was a symbol of completeness, perfection, and unity. Sitting in a circle was a common practice for teaching and discussion, emphasizing community and equal access to the speaker. This cultural context helps modern readers visualize the intimate, communal settings of Jesus' teachings as described in the Gospels.

περίβολος (peribolos, G4029) — an enclosure or surrounding structure, more architectural. κύκλῳ (kyklō, adverb) — around, in a circle, the adverbial form of κύκλος.

Word Details

Scripture References