crown

The translation for several Hebrew and Greek words designating special headpieces worn in biblical times. The different words for “crown” probably reflect important nuances in the official, royal, or priestly position of those wearing such headdresses. The most general Hebrew word for crown (‘atarah) is found frequently in poetic contexts. Another term (nezer) tends to have priestly associations, though such a distinction is imprecise because royal and priestly authorities were often closely linked (Zech 6:11-14). A third term (keter) appears only in Esther; and a related term (koteret) has architectural significance and is usually translated “capital.” In the NT the royal aspect is frequent in the use of Gk. stephanos, even when it denotes the “crown of thorns,” but the word is also used to symbolize the final reward of faithful Christians (2Tim 4:8; Jas 1:12; 1Pet 5:4; Rev 2:10).