from γέμω; a load (as filling), i.e. (specially) a cargo, or (by extension) wares:--burden, merchandise.
Transliteration:gómos
Pronunciation:gom'-os
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word γόμος (gómos), Strong's number `{{G1117}}`, derives from the verb γέμω (gemō), meaning "to be full" or "to fill." At its core, γόμος signifies "a load (as filling)," implying something that occupies a space or vessel, typically for the purpose of transport. Its semantic range extends specifically to "cargo," referring to goods carried by a ship or other conveyance, and by extension, "wares" or "merchandise"—articles intended for sale or trade. The term inherently carries a connotation of commercial value and the substantial nature of goods involved in trade.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term γόμος appears exclusively in the book of Revelation, specifically within chapter 18, which describes the dramatic fall of "Babylon the Great." Its concentrated use here is highly significant for understanding its theological implications.
* In [[Revelation 18:11]], the merchants of the earth lament over Babylon's destruction because "no man buyeth their merchandise (γόμος) any more." This verse immediately establishes γόμος as the very substance of Babylon's economic power and the source of the merchants' wealth.
* [[Revelation 18:12]] provides an extensive and chilling list of this "merchandise (γόμος)." The catalog includes a vast array of luxury goods (gold, silver, precious stones, pearls, fine linen, purple, silk, scarlet, fragrant wood, ivory, precious wood, bronze, iron, marble), spices and consumables (cinnamon, odours, ointments, frankincense, wine, oil, fine flour, wheat), livestock (beasts, sheep, horses, chariots), and most disturbingly, "slaves, and souls of men." This comprehensive list underscores the immense material wealth and commercial reach attributed to Babylon, portraying it as a global economic hub.
* While not explicitly using γόμος, [[Revelation 18:19]] speaks of those who "had ships in the sea by reason of her costliness," further reinforcing the image of Babylon as a center of maritime trade, whose wealth was derived from the very "cargo" or "merchandise" it dealt in.
The consistent use of γόμος in this context highlights the material and commercial nature of Babylon's influence, portraying it as a system built upon vast accumulation of goods and, shockingly, human exploitation.
### Related Words & Concepts
The understanding of γόμος is enriched by examining its relationship to other biblical terms:
* **Root Verb:** γέμω (gemō) `{{G1072}}`, meaning "to be full" or "to fill," provides the foundational concept of a loaded capacity.
* **Commercial Terms:**
* ἔμπορος (emporos) `{{G1713}}`: "merchant," directly linked to those who deal in γόμος.
* ἐμπορία (emporia) `{{G1712}}`: "merchandise" or "business," a broader term for the activity involving γόμος.
* πλοῦτος (ploutos) `{{G4149}}`: "riches" or "wealth," which is the outcome of successful trade in γόμος.
* **Terms for Burdens/Loads:**
* φορτίον (phortion) `{{G5413}}`: "a burden" or "load," often used for personal or spiritual burdens (e.g., [[Matthew 11:30]]). While γόμος emphasizes commercial cargo, φορτίον can denote a more general load.
* βάρος (baros) `{{G922}}`: "weight" or "burden," often used metaphorically for difficulties or responsibilities.
The distinct commercial and material focus of γόμος sets it apart from more general terms for "burden."
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of γόμος in Revelation 18 is profound and multi-faceted:
1. **Idolatry of Materialism:** The extensive list of γόμος serves as a powerful indictment of a society that places ultimate value on material possessions and commercial gain. Babylon's identity is defined by its "merchandise," symbolizing a system where wealth becomes an idol, eclipsing spiritual truth and justice.
2. **Divine Judgment on Worldly Systems:** The destruction of Babylon signifies God's righteous judgment upon any worldly system that builds its power and prosperity through greed, exploitation, and the accumulation of transient riches. The loss of its γόμος represents the complete collapse of its foundation.
3. **Dehumanization and Exploitation:** The inclusion of "slaves, and souls of men" within the list of γόμος is perhaps the most chilling aspect. It reveals the ultimate depravity of a purely materialistic system that reduces human beings, their dignity, and their very souls to commodities for trade. This highlights the horrific consequences when economic gain supersedes the sacred value of human life.
4. **Contrast with Heavenly Values:** The transient nature of Babylon's γόμος, which is utterly destroyed, stands in stark contrast to the eternal and incorruptible treasures of God's kingdom. It serves as a stark warning against investing one's ultimate hope and identity in earthly wealth.
### Summary
The Greek word γόμος (gómos), meaning "a load," "cargo," or "merchandise," is powerfully employed in Revelation 18 to characterize the vast material wealth and commercial enterprise of "Babylon the Great." Its exclusive usage in this context underscores the economic foundation and ultimate demise of a system consumed by materialism. The detailed enumeration of γόμος, culminating in the shocking inclusion of "slaves, and souls of men," serves as a profound theological statement on the idolatry of worldly riches, the dehumanizing nature of unchecked greed, and God's inevitable judgment upon systems built on exploitation and transient gain. It stands as a solemn warning to prioritize eternal values over fleeting material possessions.
TRV