### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Gómorrha**, represented by `{{G1116}}`, is of Hebrew origin and refers to **Gomorrha, a place near the Dead Sea**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. In every instance, it is mentioned alongside `{{G4670}}` Sódoma, functioning as a scriptural symbol of profound wickedness and divine judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1116}}` serves as a benchmark for divine retribution. Jude presents Gomorrha as an example of those "suffering the vengeance of eternal fire" for "giving themselves over to fornication" [[Jude 1:7]]. Similarly, Peter notes that God condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha with an "overthrow," making them an "ensample unto those that after should live ungodly" [[2 Peter 2:6]]. Jesus uses the city as a point of comparison, stating that it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrha on the day of judgment than for a city that rejects His disciples ([[Matthew 10:15]], [[Mark 6:11]]). Paul quotes Esaias, saying that if the Lord had not left a remnant, they would have been made like unto Gomorrha [[Romans 9:29]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context of Gomorrha's destruction:
* `{{G4670}}` **Sódoma** (Sodom): In every New Testament occurrence, Gomorrha is paired with Sodom, establishing them as a singular symbol of judgment. Sódoma is defined as "plural of Hebrew origin (סְדֹם); Sodoma (i.e. Sedom), a place in Palestine:--Sodom" [[Jude 1:7]].
* `{{G2692}}` **katastrophḗ** (overthrow): This word describes the very nature of Gomorrah's end. It is defined as "an overturn ('catastrophe'), i.e. demolition; figuratively, apostasy:--overthrow, subverting." This specific term is used to describe its fate in [[2 Peter 2:6]].
* `{{G1349}}` **díkē** (vengeance): This term signifies the justice executed upon Gomorrah. It is defined as "right (as self-evident), i.e. justice (the principle, a decision, or its execution):--judgment, punish, vengeance." The city is depicted as suffering the **vengeance** of eternal fire [[Jude 1:7]].
* `{{G4442}}` **pŷr** (fire): This is the instrument of judgment used against Gomorrah. The word is defined as "'fire' (literally or figuratively, specially, lightning):--fiery, fire." Jude explicitly mentions the "eternal **fire**" [[Jude 1:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1116}}` is significant, serving as a permanent warning in scripture.
* **A Benchmark for Judgment:** Gomorrha's fate establishes a standard of divine punishment. Jesus' words in [[Matthew 10:15]] and [[Mark 6:11]] indicate that the sin of rejecting His messengers is considered more severe than the sins of Gomorrah.
* **An Example of Divine Retribution:** The city is explicitly set forth as an "ensample" [[2 Peter 2:6]] and an "example" [[Jude 1:7]]. Its destruction is a tangible warning against living an ungodly life and **giving themselves over to fornication** `{{G1608}}`.
* **A Symbol of Total Annihilation:** To be made "like unto Gomorrha" signifies utter ruin. According to [[Romans 9:29]], only the Lord's mercy in preserving a "seed" prevented Israel from suffering this same complete destruction.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1116}}` is more than a geographical location; it is a cornerstone biblical symbol for sin and its consequences. Always appearing with `{{G4670}}` Sódoma, it represents a society so wicked that it warrants complete destruction by **overthrow** `{{G2692}}` and **fire** `{{G4442}}`. Its use in the New Testament establishes a profound theological point: as terrible as Gomorrah's sin was, the judgment for rejecting God's message of salvation is even greater.
TRV