occurs in 2Ti 4:17, probably figurative of the imminent peril of death, the figure being represented by the whole phrase, not by the word "lion" alone; some suppose the reference to be to the lions of the amphitheater; the Greek commentators regarded the "lion" as Nero; others understand it to be Satan. The language not improbably recalls that of Psa 22:21, Dan 6:20. The word is used metaphorically, too, in Rev 5:5, where Christ is called "the Lion of the tribe of Judah." Elsewhere it has the literal meaning, Heb 11:33, 1Pe 5:8, Rev 4:7, Rev 9:8, Rev 9:17, Rev 10:3, Rev 13:2. Taking the OT and NT occurrences the allusions are to the three great features of the "lion," (1) its majesty and strength, indicative of royalty, e.g., Pro 30:30, (2) its courage, e.g., Pro 28:1, (3) its cruelty, e.g., Psa 22:13.
Ampiaw
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