The Greek word érion, represented by G2053, is the term for wool. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. The word is used both as a literal material component in a ceremonial act and as a powerful simile to describe purity and divine appearance.
In the biblical narrative, G2053 is used in two distinct contexts. It appears as a physical object in a purification rite, where Moses uses scarlet wool along with blood and hyssop to sprinkle the book of the law and the people Hebrews 9:19. It is also used symbolically in a vision, where the hair of a divine being is described as "white like wool, as white as snow" Revelation 1:14, signifying immense purity or age.
Several related words provide context for the use of wool:
- G2359 thríx (hair): This word for hair is seen alongside wool in the description of the divine figure's head, which was "white like wool" Revelation 1:14. The term also appears in other contexts, such as the description of John the Baptist's raiment of camel's hair Matthew 3:4.
- G2847 kókkinos (crimson-colored): This term, meaning scarlet, modifies wool in the ceremonial context of Hebrews 9:19. The word is also used to describe the color of a beast in Revelation and a robe placed on Jesus (Revelation 17:3, Matthew 27:28).
- G5510 chiṓn (snow): This word for snow is used in direct comparison with wool to describe a brilliant whiteness, as in "white like wool, as white as snow" Revelation 1:14. It is also used to describe the appearance of an angel's raiment Matthew 28:3.
The theological weight of G2053 is centered on its symbolic uses in purification and divine description.
- Instrument of Covenant: In the account of the Mosaic law, scarlet wool is an integral part of the sprinkling ceremony that ratifies the covenant, used alongside blood to purify the book and the people Hebrews 9:19.
- Symbol of Divine Appearance: The comparison of a divine figure's hair to wool in Revelation serves as a powerful visual metaphor. Its whiteness, likened to snow, conveys a sense of holiness, purity, and ancient majesty Revelation 1:14.
In summary, G2053 carries meaning beyond its simple definition of wool. It functions as both a tangible element in Old Covenant rituals of purification and as a striking symbol to depict the pure and glorious nature of a divine being. Through its two appearances, érion illustrates a transition from a physical component of the law to a descriptor of heavenly purity.
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