The Greek word θεῖον (theîon), represented by G2303, refers to sulphur or brimstone. It appears 7 times in 7 unique verses, exclusively in contexts of divine judgment and destruction. Its meaning is rooted in the sense of something that flashes or is divinely sent.
In scripture, G2303 is consistently associated with fire as an agent of God's wrath. This is seen both historically and prophetically. In the gospel of Luke, it is mentioned in the context of the destruction of Sodom, where fire and brimstone rained from heaven and destroyed them all Luke 17:29. The book of Revelation expands this theme, describing plagues of fire, smoke, and brimstone issuing from the mouths of supernatural horses Revelation 9:18 and establishing the "lake of fire and brimstone" as the place of final punishment Revelation 20:10.
Several related words help clarify the role and context of brimstone:
- G4442 pŷr (fire): This word for fire is almost always paired with brimstone, signifying an intense and consuming judgment Revelation 14:10.
- G3041 límnē (lake): This term for a lake or pond is used to describe the final destination for the unrighteous, a place burning with fire and brimstone Revelation 19:20.
- G928 basanízō (to torture): This word describes the effect of the lake of fire and brimstone, where those cast into it will be tormented day and night forever Revelation 20:10.
- G2288 thánatos (death): The ultimate consequence of being cast into the lake of fire and brimstone is described as the second death Revelation 21:8.
- G2306 theiṓdēs (brimstone): This adjective, meaning sulphurous, is used to describe the material of breastplates worn by apocalyptic riders, connecting it directly to the plague they unleash Revelation 9:17.
The theological significance of G2303 is centered on the finality and severity of divine judgment.
- A Substance of Divine Wrath: From the historical judgment on Sodom Luke 17:29 to the final punishment of the devil G1228, the beast G2342, and the false prophet G5578, brimstone is a physical manifestation of God's indignation (Revelation 14:10, Revelation 20:10).
- The Second Death: The "lake which burneth with fire and brimstone" is explicitly defined as "the second death," the final portion for the fearful G1169, unbelieving G571, murderers G5406, sorcerers G5332, idolaters G1496, and all liars Revelation 21:8.
- Apocalyptic Weaponry: Brimstone is not just a feature of a location but is also an active weapon of destruction in apocalyptic visions, issuing from the mouths of supernatural horses G2462 to kill a third of mankind Revelation 9:18.
In summary, G2303 is a powerful symbol of ultimate and irreversible judgment. While appearing infrequently, its use paints a vivid picture of divine retribution. Consistently linked with fire and torment, brimstone functions as both the substance of the final punishment in the lake of fire and as a destructive plague, underscoring the severity of God's wrath against evil.
TRV