### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **zóphos**, represented by `{{G2217}}`, refers to a profound gloom, like a shrouding cloud. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. Depending on the context, it is translated as **blackness**, **darkness**, or **mist**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2217}}` is consistently associated with divine judgment and confinement. It describes the state of fallen angels who are delivered into "chains of **darkness**" [[2 Peter 2:4]] or reserved in chains "under **darkness**" until the day of judgment [[Jude 1:6]]. The term is also used metaphorically for the eternal fate of false teachers, for whom "the **blackness** of darkness" is reserved forever [[Jude 1:13]]. In a similar passage, these false teachers are described as having "the **mist** of darkness" reserved for them [[2 Peter 2:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of darkness and confinement:
* `{{G4577}}` **seirá** (a chain): This word is used directly with zóphos to describe the "chains of **darkness**" holding sinful angels in judgment [[2 Peter 2:4]].
* `{{G1199}}` **desmón** (band, bond, chain): In a parallel account, this term describes the "everlasting **chains**" that bind fallen angels under darkness [[Jude 1:6]]. It can also refer to the physical bonds of a prisoner [[Philippians 1:7]].
* `{{G4655}}` **skótos** (darkness): This word is often paired with zóphos to emphasize the intensity of the gloom, as in "the blackness of **darkness**" [[Jude 1:13]]. It is frequently used to represent the spiritual state of sin and ignorance from which believers are called out [[Colossians 1:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2217}}` is significant, highlighting aspects of divine retribution.
* **A State of Judgment:** `{{G2217}}` is not merely an absence of light but a specific condition of punishment and confinement. It is where sinful angels are held while they await final judgment ([[2 Peter 2:4]], [[Jude 1:6]]).
* **Symbol of Final Punishment:** The term is used to describe the eternal fate reserved for false teachers, signifying a permanent state of separation and gloom referred to as "the blackness of darkness for ever" [[Jude 1:13]].
* **Supernatural Oppression:** The association with a "mist" or shrouding "cloud" suggests a heavy, oppressive quality to this darkness. It is a supernatural gloom used as an instrument of divine judgment against spiritual rebellion.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2217}}` **zóphos** is a potent and specific term for a punitive gloom. Used exclusively in the context of divine judgment, it describes the confinement of fallen angels and the eternal destiny of ungodly teachers. It moves beyond a simple concept of darkness to convey a state of oppressive, inescapable gloom that serves as a holding place for judgment, illustrating a profound theological concept of accountability and consequence.
TRV