ἄρκτος

The Greek word ἄρκτος (arktos) is translated as "bear". It belongs to the semantic domain of Animals & Creatures. This means that the word specifically refers to a particular type of animal, the bear, and is not a broader category like "beast" or "wild animal". The restricted semantic domain and the single occurrence of the word in the Bible suggest that the author uses a precise and accurate term to convey a specific idea. The absence of any metaphorical or symbolic expansion of the word's meaning indicates that the author is primarily concerned with a literal reference to the animal. The significance of this word lies in its specific and concrete nature, providing a vivid image for the reader. The fact that the Bible uses this precise term for a particular animal emphasizes the importance of accuracy and detail in describing the natural world. This, in turn, highlights the author's respect for the natural order and the importance of faithful representation of reality.