### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective ἐλεφάντινος (G1661, *elephántinos*) is derived from the noun for "elephant." Its primary meaning is therefore "of an elephant" or "elephantine." However, in its practical application and particularly within the biblical context, it carries the strong implication of being "composed of ivory." Ivory, being a product derived from elephants, naturally leads to this semantic extension. The word describes the material composition of an object, indicating its origin from this valuable and exotic substance. Its semantic range is quite narrow, focusing specifically on the material *ivory* rather than the animal itself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἐλεφάντινος (G1661) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the apocalyptic book of Revelation:
* **[[Revelation 18:12]]**: "The merchandise of gold, and silver, and precious stones, and of pearls, and fine linen, and purple, and silk, and scarlet, and all thyine wood, and all manner vessels of ivory, and all manner vessels of most precious wood, and of brass, and iron, and marble,"
In this solitary occurrence, ἐλεφάντινος is used to describe "vessels of ivory" (σκεύη ἐλεφάντινα), listed among the vast array of luxurious and costly goods associated with "Babylon the Great," the symbolic representation of a corrupt, worldly system. The context is a lament over the fall of this great city, whose merchants grew rich from its extravagant trade. The inclusion of "vessels of ivory" underscores the immense wealth, opulence, and materialistic excesses that characterized Babylon. Ivory was a highly prized commodity in the ancient world, often used for decorative items, furniture inlays, and luxury vessels, signifying status and power. Its presence in this list emphasizes the depth of Babylon's worldly indulgence and its reliance on material possessions.
### Related Words & Concepts
While ἐλεφάντινος (G1661) is unique in its direct New Testament usage, the concept of ivory as a symbol of wealth and luxury is well-attested throughout the biblical narrative, particularly in the Old Testament. The Hebrew word for ivory, שֵׁן (*shen*, `{{H8147}}`), literally meaning "tooth," is frequently used to denote elephant tusks and the material derived from them.
* **Old Testament Parallels**:
* King Solomon's magnificent throne, partly overlaid with ivory (e.g., [[1 Kings 10:18]], [[2 Chronicles 9:17]]).
* Ahab's "ivory house" in Samaria, indicating extreme luxury (e.g., [[1 Kings 22:39]]).
* The prophet Amos condemning the wealthy elite of Samaria for their "houses of ivory" and luxurious living while the poor suffered (e.g., [[Amos 3:15]], [[Amos 6:4]]).
* Ezekiel's lament over Tyre, mentioning "vessels of ivory" as part of its extensive trade (e.g., [[Ezekiel 27:15]], where "horns of ivory" are listed).
These Old Testament references establish a consistent biblical understanding of ivory as a material associated with immense wealth, royal splendor, and often, the excesses of human pride and materialism. In Revelation, ἐλεφάντινος (G1661) clearly aligns with this established symbolic tradition, placing "vessels of ivory" alongside other precious commodities like gold, silver, precious stones, and fine fabrics (e.g., [[Revelation 18:12]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ἐλεφάντινος (G1661) in [[Revelation 18:12]] is profound, despite its singular occurrence. As an item of extreme luxury, ivory serves as a powerful symbol within the broader condemnation of "Babylon the Great."
1. **Symbol of Worldly Opulence and Excess**: Ivory, along with other precious goods, represents the pinnacle of earthly wealth and the insatiable desire for material possessions. Babylon's trade in such items signifies its devotion to worldly prosperity and its rejection of spiritual values.
2. **Idolatry of Materialism**: The accumulation and trade of these luxurious goods, including ivory, highlight a system built on greed and self-indulgence. This reflects a form of idolatry, where the created things (wealth, comfort, status) are worshipped instead of the Creator.
3. **Transience of Earthly Riches**: The lament over Babylon's fall emphasizes that all this material splendor, including its "vessels of ivory," is temporary and ultimately subject to divine judgment. The swift destruction of these commodities underscores the fleeting nature of worldly power and wealth in contrast to the enduring kingdom of God.
4. **Moral Corruption**: The trade in ivory and similar goods is not merely neutral commerce but is intrinsically linked to the moral corruption of Babylon, whose "sins are piled up to heaven" ([[Revelation 18:5]]). It speaks to an economic system built on exploitation and unrighteous gain.
### Summary
The Greek word ἐλεφάντινος (G1661), meaning "of ivory" or "composed of ivory," appears uniquely in [[Revelation 18:12]]. In this context, it describes "vessels of ivory" as part of the vast array of luxury goods traded by "Babylon the Great." This singular occurrence carries significant theological weight, serving as a powerful symbol of worldly opulence, extreme materialism, and the idolatry inherent in valuing earthly riches above all else. Consistent with Old Testament portrayals of ivory as a mark of immense wealth, its inclusion in Revelation underscores the transient and ultimately condemned nature of a system built on such self-serving extravagance. The presence of ἐλεφάντινος thus contributes to the apocalyptic vision of divine judgment upon all forms of human pride and unrighteous accumulation.
TRV