The Greek word diplóō, represented by G1363, is a verb meaning to render two-fold or double. Derived from the word for "two-fold" (διπλοῦς), its use in scripture is exceptionally specific, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse. This rarity underscores its potent application in the context of divine judgment.
The sole appearance of G1363 is in the dramatic command of Revelation concerning the judgment of Babylon. The verse calls for a doubling of retribution: "Reward her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works" Revelation 18:6. Here, the verb is not merely descriptive but prescriptive, an active command to intensify the consequences of her actions. It signifies a complete and overwhelming requital, rendering back a punishment that is twofold in measure.
Several related words illuminate the context of this severe judgment:
- G1362 diploûs (two-fold): This word, from which G1363 is derived, is used as an adjective to describe the measure of both reward and condemnation. It is used for "double honour" for elders 1 Timothy 5:17 and to make a convert "twofold more the child of hell" Matthew 23:15, showing its role in intensifying an outcome.
- G591 apodídōmi (to give away, i.e. up, over, back, etc.): This verb for rendering or repaying is used to initiate the command in which G1363 appears Revelation 18:6. It establishes the theme of just recompense, a principle seen elsewhere when God is said to reward every person according to their works (Matthew 16:27, Revelation 22:12).
- G2767 keránnymi (to pour out): In the same verse, the doubling of punishment is linked to the act of filling a cup: "in the cup which she hath filled, fill to her double" Revelation 18:6. This connects the action to the powerful biblical metaphor of the cup of God's wrath being poured out Revelation 14:10.
The theological weight of G1363 is focused entirely on the nature of divine justice.
- Amplified Judgment: The command to "double" signifies that God's judgment is not merely a one-for-one repayment. It represents a recompense that is perfectly just yet overwhelming in its finality, fully addressing the measure of sin.
- Active Retribution: As a verb, G1363 emphasizes the active and deliberate nature of God's judgment. It is an action performed, a sentence carried out with decisive force, as seen in the command to "double unto her double" Revelation 18:6.
- The Cup of Consequence: The use of G1363 in conjunction with filling a cup Revelation 18:6 powerfully illustrates that the consequences poured out are directly and intensely related to the actions previously committed.
In summary, G1363 is a rare but highly significant verb. Its single biblical appearance in Revelation 18:6 solidifies its meaning as an action of severe and amplified retribution. It functions within a clear framework of divine justice, connected to the concepts of rendering what is due G591 and filling a cup of wrath G2767. The word powerfully conveys the intensity and finality of God's judgment against worldly systems that stand in opposition to Him.
TRV