### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun βολίς (G1002, bolís) is derived from the verb βάλλω (`{{G906}}`, ballō), meaning "to throw, cast, or hurl." Consequently, βολίς fundamentally denotes "that which is thrown" or "a missile." Its primary semantic range encompasses objects designed to be projected with force, specifically a "javelin" or "dart." The term evokes an image of a weapon or projectile intended for striking a target, implying swiftness and precision in its trajectory and impact.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term βολίς (G1002) appears only once in the New Testament, found in the book of Hebrews. This singular occurrence is in [[Hebrews 12:20]], within a passage that vividly describes the awe-inspiring and terrifying nature of the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai. The verse reads: "For they could not endure the command that was given, 'If even a beast touches the mountain, it shall be stoned, or thrust through with a dart.'"
In this context, the "dart" (βολίς) serves as an instrument of immediate and fatal judgment against any unauthorized intrusion upon the sacred space of Mount Sinai. It underscores the absolute holiness of God and the strict, unyielding boundaries He established under the Old Covenant. The use of βολίς here emphasizes the swift and inescapable consequence of violating divine separation, highlighting the mortal danger inherent in approaching God outside of His prescribed means. The passage in Hebrews 12 contrasts this fearful encounter with Sinai with the gracious and accessible approach to God made possible through Christ in the New Covenant.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the verb from which βολίς is derived: βάλλω (`{{G906}}`, ballō), meaning "to throw, cast, hurl." This root emphasizes the action of propulsion inherent in the noun. Conceptually, βολίς relates to other terms for weapons or instruments of judgment, such as:
* μάχαιρα (`{{G3162}}`, machaira): a sword, often used for execution or judgment.
* ῥομφαία (`{{G4478}}`, rhomphaia): a large sword or spear, frequently used metaphorically for divine judgment (e.g., the sword of the Spirit).
* τόξον (`{{G5115}}`, toxon): a bow, which projects arrows, another form of missile.
Beyond specific weaponry, βολίς connects with broader theological concepts such as:
* Divine judgment and wrath.
* Holiness and separation.
* Consequences of sin and transgression.
* The impenetrable barrier between the holy God and sinful humanity under the Old Covenant.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of βολίς in [[Hebrews 12:20]] carries profound theological weight. It serves as a stark symbol of the Old Covenant's emphasis on God's unapproachable holiness and the severe consequences of its violation. The "dart" represents the immediate and lethal enforcement of divine boundaries, illustrating the absolute necessity of purification and mediation for any approach to God.
The author of Hebrews employs this terrifying image of Sinai to highlight the radical difference and superiority of the New Covenant. Under the New Covenant, believers do not come to a mountain that burns with fire and the sound of a trumpet and a voice, where even a beast touching it would be pierced with a dart. Instead, they come to Mount Zion, the city of the living God, through the blood of Jesus ([[Hebrews 12:22-24]]). Thus, βολίς underscores the fear and distance characteristic of the old dispensation, contrasting it sharply with the grace, access, and confident approach offered through Christ's atoning work. It powerfully illustrates the transition from a covenant of fear and death to one of grace and life.
### Summary
The Greek word βολίς (G1002), meaning "a missile" or "dart," is derived from the verb "to throw" (βάλλω, `{{G906}}`). Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Hebrews 12:20]] is highly significant. In this context, the "dart" symbolizes the immediate and fatal consequence for violating the sacred boundaries of Mount Sinai during the giving of the Law. Theologically, βολίς serves as a potent image of God's absolute holiness, the strict demands of the Old Covenant, and the swiftness of divine judgment against transgression. It functions as a powerful contrast to the accessibility and grace found in the New Covenant through Jesus Christ, underscoring the shift from an era of fear and separation to one of confident approach and reconciliation.
TRV