Berean Strong's Lexicon keration: Pod, Carob pod Original Word: κεράτιον Word Origin: Diminutive of κέρας (keras), meaning "horn" Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent for "keration," the concept of carob pods as a food source can be related to the broader biblical theme of sustenance and provision, as seen in various Old Testament passages that discuss food and survival. Usage: The term "keration" refers to the pods of the carob tree, which were commonly used as food for livestock and occasionally consumed by the poor. In the New Testament, it is used metaphorically to describe a state of extreme poverty and desperation. Cultural and Historical Background: The carob tree, native to the Mediterranean region, produces long, brown pods that contain a sweet, edible pulp. In ancient times, these pods were a staple for feeding animals, particularly swine. Due to their abundance and low cost, carob pods were also eaten by impoverished people when other food sources were unavailable. The carob pod's association with animal feed highlights the depth of destitution experienced by those who resorted to eating them. NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Origindim. of keras Definition a carob pod NASB Translation pods (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 2769: κεράτιονκεράτιον, κερατιου, τό (diminutive of κέρας); 1. a little horn. 2. the name of the fruit of the κερατέα or κερατεια (or κερατια), the Ceratonia sillqua (Linn.) or carob tree (called also St. John's Bread (from the notion that its pods, which resemble those of the 'locust', constituted the food of the Baptist)). This fruit is shaped like a horn and has a sweet taste; it was (and is) used not only in fattening swine, but as an article of food by the lower classes: Luke 15:16 (A. V. husks); cf. Winers RWB, under the word Johannisbrodbaum; (B. D. (especially American edition) under the word Neuter of a presumed derivative of keras; something horned, i.e. (specially) the pod of the carob-tree -- husk. see GREEK keras |