קֶרֶן

קֶרֶן

a horn (as projecting); by implication, a flask, cornet; by resemblance. an elephant's tooth (i.e. ivory)

Definition

The Hebrew word קֶרֶן (qeren) primarily means 'horn,' referring to the hard, projecting growth on the head of an animal like a ram or ox (Genesis 22:13). By extension, it came to denote objects shaped like a horn, such as a flask for oil (1 Samuel 16:1), a musical instrument or cornet (Joshua 6:5), and the corner of an altar (Exodus 27:2). Figuratively, the horn is a powerful symbol of strength, power, and dignity, as seen when God 'exalts the horn' of His anointed (1 Samuel 2:10, Psalm 132:17). It can also poetically describe rays of light, like the 'horns' (rays) of dawn (Habakkuk 3:4).

Biblical Usage

קֶרֶן is used 68 times across various Old Testament books, including the Torah (especially in Exodus for altar descriptions), historical books, Psalms, and prophets. Its literal use for animal horns is common (e.g., Daniel 8:5). In cultic contexts, it specifies the horn-like projections on the altar for applying blood in sacrifices (Exodus 29:12, Leviticus 4:7). The metaphorical sense of power or exalted status is prominent in poetic and prophetic literature, such as the 'horn of salvation' in the Psalms (Psalm 18:2) and the horns representing kingdoms in Daniel's visions (Daniel 7:7-8).

Etymology

Derived from the root קָרַן (qāran, H7160), which means 'to shine' or 'to send out rays.' This connection explains how 'horn' could also signify a ray of light. The semantic development likely moved from the idea of something projecting (like a horn) to emitting light. Cognates exist in other Semitic languages, like Ugaritic and Aramaic, with similar meanings of 'horn.'

Semantic Range

קֶרֶן is theologically significant as a rich symbol of divine power and messianic hope. In the sacrificial system, the horns of the altar were a place of atonement and refuge (1 Kings 1:50-51). Prophetically, the 'horn' represents God-given strength and the coming deliverer, culminating in the New Testament image of Jesus as the 'horn of salvation' (Luke 1:69). Understanding this Hebrew concept deepens appreciation for biblical imagery of strength, kingship, and salvation. In ancient Near Eastern culture, horns symbolized potency, victory, and authority, often associated with gods and kings. Animal horns were used as containers, trumpets (shofars), and symbols on altars. The 'horn of oil' for anointing signified consecration (1 Samuel 16:13). This differs from a modern view of horns merely as animal parts; they carried deep symbolic weight related to life, power, and divine presence. שׁוֹפָר (shophar, H7782) — a specific type of horn used as a trumpet for signaling. צַד (tsad, H6654) — side or corner, but not specifically horn-shaped. כֹּחַ (koach, H3581) — strength or power, the abstract quality the horn symbolizes.

Word Details