The Greek word ákratos, represented by G194, means undiluted or without mixture. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. The word is derived from the negative particle Α and a presumed derivative of keránnymi G2767, which means to mingle, highlighting its meaning as something that is not mixed.
The sole appearance of G194 is in the book of Revelation, where it describes the intensity of divine judgment. It is used to characterize the wine of God's wrath, which is "poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation" Revelation 14:10. This emphasizes that the judgment is not diluted or tempered but is served in its full, concentrated strength to those who will be tormented with fire and brimstone.
Several related words clarify the context of G194 and its singular, powerful use:
- G2767 keránnymi (to mingle, i.e. (by implication) to pour out (for drinking)): This is the root concept from which ákratos derives its negative meaning. In the same passage, this word describes how the wine of God's wrath is "poured out" Revelation 14:10.
- G2372 thymós (passion (as if breathing hard)): This is the "wrath" of God that is described as being undiluted. It signifies a fierce, passionate anger, such as in the "fierceness and wrath of Almighty God" Revelation 19:15.
- G3709 orgḗ (properly, desire... i.e. (by analogy), violent passion (ire, or (justifiable) abhorrence); by implication punishment): This word is used for the "indignation" contained within the cup, pointing to a settled and justified abhorrence that results in punishment Revelation 14:10.
The theological weight of G194 is concentrated in its single appearance, conveying a severe aspect of divine justice.
- Unmitigated Judgment: The primary significance is to show that God's final judgment on the unrepentant is pure and unmitigated. Unlike wine that was often mixed with water, this "wine of the wrath of God" is served full strength Revelation 14:10.
- Finality of Wrath: The term underscores the terrifying finality of this punishment. There is no element of mercy or leniency mixed in; it is the full measure of God's indignation G3709 poured out.
- Divine Purity: In a contrasting sense, the word points to the purity of God's justice. The wrath is "without mixture," meaning it is a holy and righteous response to sin, witnessed by the holy G40 angels G32 and the Lamb G721.
In summary, G194 ákratos is a rare but critically important biblical term. Its meaning, without mixture, is used once to deliver a stark and unforgettable image of God's undiluted wrath. This single use in Revelation vividly portrays a final judgment that is absolute, pure, and terrifying in its full strength, demonstrating how one word can define the gravity of God's final response to unrighteousness.
TRV