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HORN.—The expression ‘a horn of salvation’ in the song of Zacharias (Luk_1:69) is undoubtedly a reference to the promised Messiah. A similar combination of words is found in Psa_18:2, but the conception is more probably due to Psa_132:17, 1Sa_2:10.
1. In the OT the word ‘horn’ is figuratively used in poetical and allegorical language: (a) for abstract notions of strength (Num_23:22, Psa_89:17-24), and hence of dignity (Psa_112:9) or pride (Psa_75:4 ff.); also, (b) in a concrete sense, to represent kings and empires (Dan_7:24; Dan_8:20 f., Zec_1:18 ff.). The rendering ‘a mighty salvation,’ Luk_1:69 (Pr. Bk. [Note: Bk. Prayer Book.] ), paraphrases the sense but obliterates the associations. Hor. Od. iii. 21, 18 is quoted as an instance of the metaphor in ordinary literature, in which it is rare.
2. Inasmuch as the horn in animals is a weapon of attack rather than of defence, some have regarded it as a symbol of aggressive strength (see Delitzsch, Perowne, etc., on Psa_18:2): possibly combative strength, in which both ideas are included, would be a better definition. There are two classes of symbols expressive of such strength: (a) natural weapons (e.g. horn, right hand, arm, etc.), and (b) artificial weapons (arrows, axe, shield, etc.). When any distinction is to be made, the former class tends to represent that strength which is personal, inherent, immediate; the latter, to represent that strength in which second causes, instruments, agents appear (Isa_10:5; Isa_10:15).
F. S. Ranken.