### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kaumatízō**, represented by `{{G2739}}`, means to **burn** or **scorch**. It is derived from `{{G2738}}` **kaûma**, meaning **heat**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is used to describe both a natural process of being scorched by the sun and a supernatural act of divine judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Gospels, **kaumatízō** is used in the Parable of the Sower to describe seed that falls on rocky ground. When the **sun** `{{G2246}}` was up, the plants were **scorched** [[Matthew 13:6]] and because they had no **root** `{{G4491}}`, they withered away [[Mark 4:6]]. In Revelation, the word takes on a judgmental context. The fourth **angel** `{{G32}}` is given **power** `{{G1849}}` to **scorch** men with **fire** `{{G4442}}` from the sun [[Revelation 16:8]]. Consequently, men were **scorched** with great **heat** `{{G2738}}` but responded by blaspheming God instead of repenting [[Revelation 16:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the act of scorching:
* `{{G2246}}` **hḗlios** (the sun; by implication, light): The sun is the direct source of the scorching in three of the four instances of `{{G2739}}`, both in the parables [[Matthew 13:6]] and in the final judgments [[Revelation 16:8]].
* `{{G4491}}` **rhíza** (a "root"): The lack of a **root** is the direct cause for the plants being **scorched** and withering away, illustrating a faith that is not deeply planted [[Mark 4:6]].
* `{{G4127}}` **plēgḗ** (a stroke; by implication, a wound; figuratively, a calamity): The scorching in Revelation is one of the **plagues** over which God has **power** `{{G1849}}`, connecting the act of scorching to divine retribution [[Revelation 16:9]].
* `{{G3583}}` **xēraínō** (to desiccate; by implication, to shrivel, to mature): This describes the direct consequence of being **scorched** in the Parable of the Sower, where the plants "withered away" [[Matthew 13:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2739}}` is seen in its application:
* **Testing of Faith:** In the parables, being **scorched** `{{G2739}}` by the **sun** `{{G2246}}` symbolizes trials that test the authenticity of one's faith. A shallow belief without **root** `{{G4491}}` cannot endure and withers ([[Matthew 13:6]], [[Mark 4:6]]).
* **Instrument of Judgment:** In Revelation, scorching is an act of divine judgment poured out by the fourth **angel** `{{G32}}`. Power is given to **scorch** `{{G2739}}` men **with** `{{G1722}}` **fire** `{{G4442}}` as part of the plagues upon the earth [[Revelation 16:8]].
* **Hardness of Heart:** The use of the word highlights humanity's response to judgment. Even when **scorched** `{{G2739}}` with great **heat** `{{G2738}}`, the people **blasphemed** `{{G987}}` God and refused to **repent** `{{G3340}}`, demonstrating a hardened heart against God [[Revelation 16:9]].
### Summary
In summary, **kaumatízō** `{{G2739}}` describes an intense burning. While it appears only four times, it serves two distinct and powerful purposes. In the Gospels, it illustrates the vulnerability of a superficial faith when tested by hardship. In Revelation, it functions as a terrifying plague of divine judgment, revealing the unrepentant nature of those who oppose God. The word connects the natural power of the **sun** `{{G2246}}` with the supernatural **power** `{{G1849}}` of God to execute his will.
TRV