The Greek word kinámōmon, represented by G2792, refers to the spice cinnamon. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. The term is noted as being of foreign origin, highlighting its status as an item of trade and value in the ancient world.
The single biblical appearance of G2792 is in the book of Revelation. It is listed among a long inventory of luxury goods and cargo traded by the great city of "Babylon." This list illustrates the vastness of her commercial empire and the worldly materialism that characterizes her before her sudden fall. The verse mentions "cinnamon, and odours, and ointments, and frankincense" as part of the merchandise that will no longer be bought or sold Revelation 18:13.
Several related words appear alongside kinámōmon in its only context, providing a fuller picture of valuable, aromatic goods:
- G2368 thymíama (an aroma, i.e. fragrant powder burnt in religious service; by implication, the burning itself:--incense, odour): This is used in the context of prayer and worship in the heavenly altar Revelation 8:3-4 but is also listed as a commodity of Babylon Revelation 18:13.
- G3464 mýron ("myrrh", i.e. (by implication) perfumed oil:--ointment): This is frequently mentioned in connection with acts of devotion, such as the anointing of Jesus' feet by a woman John 12:3, but is also included in Babylon's list of merchandise Revelation 18:13.
- G3030 líbanos (of foreign origin (לְבוֹנָה); the incense-tree, i.e. (by implication) incense itself:--frankincense): This appears as one of the precious gifts presented to the young child Jesus Matthew 2:11 and as a trade good in Revelation Revelation 18:13.
- G1637 élaion (neuter of the same as ἐλαία; olive oil:--oil): A versatile substance used for healing Luke 10:34, anointing James 5:14, and as a basic provision for lamps Matthew 25:4, it is also listed among Babylon's commercial goods Revelation 18:13.
The theological significance of G2792 is derived entirely from its singular context.
- Symbol of Worldly Luxury: As an expensive, imported spice, cinnamon helps symbolize the excessive wealth, indulgence, and materialism of the worldly system identified as "Babylon" in Revelation.
- Perishability of Earthly Commerce: The mention of G2792 occurs in a passage describing the complete and final cessation of all commerce for "Babylon." Its presence in this list underscores the theme that all the material treasures of the world are temporary and will come to nothing under divine judgment Revelation 18:13.
- Global Trade: The inclusion of goods like cinnamon points to the international and far-reaching nature of the economic system being judged, which deals not only in necessities but in exotic luxuries and even human lives Revelation 18:13.
In summary, G2792 is a highly specific term for cinnamon that serves a distinct symbolic purpose in its sole biblical appearance. It is not used to describe worship or anointing but is exclusively listed as an article of merchandise in the inventory of the fallen city of "Babylon" Revelation 18:13. Its presence there functions as a powerful symbol of the kind of worldly opulence and materialism that is judged by God.
TRV