The Greek word dékatos, represented by G1182, is an ordinal number meaning tenth. It is derived from δέκα and appears 3 times in 3 unique verses in the Bible. It is used to specify a particular point in a sequence, whether referring to time or a position in a list.
In the biblical text, G1182 is used in a few distinct ways. It marks a specific time of day, as when two disciples first stayed with Jesus at about "the tenth hour" John 1:39. It is also used to signify a fraction, as in the prophecy where a "great earthquake" causes "the tenth part of the city" to fall Revelation 11:13. Finally, it serves as an ordinal marker in a descriptive list, identifying the tenth foundation stone of the New Jerusalem as a chrysoprasus Revelation 21:20.
Several related ordinal numbers are used in similar contexts to establish sequence and order:
- G1442 hébdomos (seventh): This term, meaning seventh, is used to mark the seventh foundation stone Revelation 21:20 and significant eschatological events like the opening of the seventh seal Revelation 8:1.
- G1623 héktos (sixth): Meaning sixth, this word appears in lists, such as for the sixth foundation stone Revelation 21:20, and to mark time, as in "the sixth hour" when darkness covered the land Mark 15:33.
- G1428 dōdékatos (twelfth): Defined as twelfth, this number completes the list of the twelve foundation stones of the New Jerusalem, with the final stone being an amethyst Revelation 21:20.
The conceptual weight of G1182 is derived from the contexts in which it appears.
- Marking Sacred Time: The mention of "the tenth hour" pinpoints the moment the first disciples began their journey with Jesus, grounding a pivotal spiritual event in a specific, recorded time John 1:39.
- Symbol of Measured Judgment: In Revelation, "the tenth part of the city" falling signifies a precise and limited divine judgment, illustrating a measured response Revelation 11:13.
- Contribution to Divine Order: As the tenth foundation stone in the New Jerusalem, it represents an integral part of a divinely designed and perfect structure, contributing to the complete and ordered beauty of God's final dwelling place Revelation 21:20.
In summary, G1182 is more than a simple numerical designation. It serves to add specificity and significance to the narratives where it is found. Whether marking the precise hour a relationship with Christ begins, defining the proportional scope of divine judgment, or listing the components of a perfect heavenly city, dékatos highlights a God who operates with precision, order, and purpose.
TRV