κύων

a dog

Definition

In the New Testament, κύων (kyōn) primarily refers to a literal dog, an animal considered unclean and contemptible in ancient Jewish culture (Luke 16:21). It is used metaphorically to describe people of low moral or spiritual character, specifically those who are hostile to the gospel or morally impure. In Philippians 3:2, Paul warns believers to 'beware of the dogs,' referring to false teachers or Judaizers who threaten the church. The word also symbolizes those who are ultimately excluded from God's holy city, as seen in Revelation 22:15, where 'dogs' are listed among the wicked outside the New Jerusalem.

Biblical Usage

The word is used five times across Gospels, Epistles, and Revelation. In Matthew 7:6, it appears in a proverbial warning not to give what is holy to 'dogs,' implying those who would scorn sacred truth. In Luke 16:21, it describes literal dogs licking a beggar's sores, highlighting extreme destitution. Its metaphorical use is strongest in Philippians 3:2 (false teachers), 2 Peter 2:22 (apostates returning to sin like a dog to its vomit), and Revelation 22:15 (the eternally impure excluded from salvation).

Etymology

Derived from the ancient Greek noun κύων (kyōn), meaning 'dog.' It is a common Indo-European root, with cognates in Latin (canis) and English ('canine'). In Greek literature, it could denote both the domestic animal and, by extension, a shameless or low person, a sense carried into the biblical usage.

Semantic Range

The term is theologically significant as a metaphor for spiritual corruption and exclusion. It underscores the biblical theme of holiness versus impurity, warning believers against false doctrine (Philippians 3:2) and apostasy (2 Peter 2:22). Its use in Revelation 22:15 vividly contrasts the purity of the New Creation with those definitively outside God's kingdom, enriching our understanding of final judgment and the call to persevere in faith.

In the ancient Near East and Greco-Roman world, dogs were typically scavengers, not beloved pets. In Jewish law, they were considered unclean animals (Deuteronomy 23:18). Calling someone a 'dog' was a severe insult, implying they were vile, contemptible, or morally debased. This cultural disdain sharply contrasts with many modern views of dogs as companions, which is essential for correctly interpreting the biblical metaphors.

None directly synonymous in the metaphorical sense used. For a literal animal, generic terms like θηρίον (thērion, G2342) — 'wild beast' could contextually overlap but lack the specific cultural and moral connotations of κύων.

Word Details

Scripture References