### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **bolís**, represented by `{{G1002}}`, refers to a **missile** or **dart**. Derived from βάλλω, its single appearance across one unique verse in the Bible gives its context a specific and powerful weight.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G1002}}` is found in [[Hebrews 12:20]], where the author recalls the terrifying holiness of Mount Sinai. The verse describes the command given to the Israelites that even a **beast** touching the mountain must be executed, either by stoning or by being "thrust through with a **dart**." In this passage, the **dart** is an instrument of immediate and lethal judgment, used to enforce the absolute sanctity of God's presence and the boundary between the holy and the profane.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context help clarify the meaning of `{{G1002}}`:
* `{{G2700}}` **katatoxeúō** (to shoot down with an arrow or other missile): This verb describes the action of being **thrust through**, which is directly accomplished by the **dart** [[Hebrews 12:20]].
* `{{G3036}}` **lithoboléō** (to throw stones): Presented as the alternative punishment to being struck with a dart, the act of stoning emphasizes the deadly consequence of touching the mountain [[Hebrews 12:20]].
* `{{G2342}}` **thēríon** (a dangerous animal): This word identifies the creature, a **beast**, which was subject to death by stoning or by a **dart** if it touched the holy mountain [[Hebrews 12:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1002}}` is concentrated in its single appearance, highlighting specific principles:
* **Instrument of Judgment:** The **dart** functions as a weapon to carry out a divine death sentence, underscoring the severe and final penalty for violating a sacred command under the Old Covenant.
* **Enforcing Divine Holiness:** The threat of being killed by a **dart** establishes a clear and non-negotiable boundary around the holy ground of Mount Sinai, demonstrating that God's holy presence could not be approached casually.
* **Symbol of a Fearful Law:** In the argument of Hebrews, the image of a **beast** being "thrust through with a **dart**" contributes to the picture of the terrifying and unapproachable nature of the law given at Sinai, which is then contrasted with the grace of the New Covenant [[Hebrews 12:20]].
### Summary
In summary, while **bolís** `{{G1002}}` is a rare term, its role as a **dart** in [[Hebrews 12:20]] is profoundly illustrative. It functions as a powerful symbol of the lethal judgment required to protect God's holiness under the Old Covenant. Its single mention serves as a stark reminder of the fear associated with the law, setting the stage for the book of Hebrews' message about a new and better way to approach God through Christ.
TRV