### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kaûma**, represented by `{{G2738}}`, is defined as **heat**. Derived from καίω, its base definition is "properly, a burn (concretely), but used (abstractly) of a glow." This term is rare, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible, with both occurrences found in the book of Revelation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{G2738}}` present a stark contrast between divine judgment and divine protection. In [[Revelation 16:9]], it is an instrument of God's wrath, where men "were scorched with great **heat**" as part of a plague, which caused them to blaspheme God. Conversely, in [[Revelation 7:16]], its absence is a promise of eternal comfort for the redeemed, stating they will no longer have the sun light on them, "nor any **heat**." One verse depicts it as a torment for the unrepentant, while the other depicts its removal as a blessing for the faithful.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help contextualize the meaning of `{{G2738}}` as a form of affliction:
* `{{G2739}}` **kaumatízō** (to burn:--scorch): This is the verb form directly associated with `{{G2738}}`. Its use is explicit in [[Revelation 16:9]], where men were **scorched** `{{G2739}}` by the great **heat** `{{G2738}}`.
* `{{G3983}}` **peináō** (to famish (absolutely or comparatively); figuratively, to crave:--be an hungered): In [[Revelation 7:16]], deliverance from **heat** is promised alongside the assurance that the redeemed "shall **hunger** no more."
* `{{G1372}}` **dipsáō** (to thirst for (literally or figuratively):--(be, be a-)thirst(-y)): This word is also used in parallel with `{{G2738}}` in [[Revelation 7:16]], where those in God's presence will "neither **thirst** any more," linking the relief from **heat** to the relief from other fundamental physical sufferings.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2738}}` is concentrated in its eschatological application within Revelation.
* **A Tool of Divine Judgment:** The "great **heat**" in [[Revelation 16:9]] is not a natural disaster but a targeted plague demonstrating God's power over creation and His judgment upon those who "repented not to give him glory."
* **A Symbol of Earthly Affliction:** In the promise to the saints, **heat** `{{G2738}}` is listed with hunger and thirst as a form of suffering characteristic of mortal life. Its removal signifies a complete transition to a state of perfect, heavenly comfort and safety [[Revelation 7:16]].
* **A Marker of Final Destinies:** The presence or absence of **heat** serves as a clear dividing line. For the wicked, it is an element of their final punishment, while for the righteous, its absence is a feature of their eternal reward.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2738}}` is a narrowly used but powerful term. Its meaning is almost entirely shaped by its two appearances in Revelation. As **heat**, it functions on two opposite ends of the theological spectrum: it is both a severe instrument of divine judgment poured out upon a rebellious world and a symbol of the earthly hardship from which God will ultimately deliver His faithful people.
TRV