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.
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.
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.
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.
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