### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective λιπαρός (liparós, `{{G3045}}`) is derived from a root suggesting "grease" or "fat." Its primary literal meaning, therefore, pertains to something "fat," "oily," or "rich" in substance. This physical characteristic extends metaphorically to denote qualities of "sumptuousness," "luxury," "splendor," or "daintyness." The word implies a sense of abundance, richness, and desirability, particularly in the context of provisions or material possessions that are highly prized for their quality and opulence. It conveys a sense of lavishness and indulgence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term λιπαρός (liparós, `{{G3045}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the book of Revelation:
* **[[Revelation 18:14]]**: "And the fruit of your soul's desire, and all your dainty and splendid things have departed from you, and you will never find them again."
In this passage, λιπαρός is used in the lament over the destruction of "Babylon the Great," a symbolic representation of worldly power, economic might, and moral corruption opposed to God. The phrase "your dainty things" (τὰ λιπαρά σου) refers to the luxurious and highly desirable possessions and pleasures that characterized Babylon's opulent lifestyle. It is paired with λαμπρός (lamprós, `{{G2986}}`, "splendid" or "bright"), further emphasizing the material brilliance and attractiveness of Babylon's wealth. The sudden and irreversible loss of these "dainty and splendid things" underscores the transient nature of worldly riches and the certainty of divine judgment upon systems built on self-indulgence and opposition to God. The context highlights Babylon's excessive materialism and the ultimate emptiness of such pursuits.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of λιπαρός (liparós, `{{G3045}}`) connects it to concepts of wealth, luxury, and abundance, often with an underlying tone of excess or indulgence.
* **λαμπρός (lamprós, `{{G2986}}`)**: "splendid," "bright," "magnificent." This word is directly paired with λιπαρός in [[Revelation 18:14]], emphasizing the visual and qualitative aspects of Babylon's luxury.
* **πλοῦτος (ploutos, `{{G4149}}`)**: "wealth," "riches," "abundance." This is a general term for material prosperity, which λιπαρός describes in a more specific, qualitative way.
* **τρυφή (tryphē, `{{G5172}}`)**: "luxury," "delicacy," "wantonness." This word often carries a connotation of self-indulgent pleasure or softness, aligning with the "dainty" aspect of λιπαρός.
* **πολύτιμος (polytimos, `{{G4185}}`)**: "very precious," "costly." This describes the high value of items that might be considered λιπαρός.
The concept stands in stark contrast to poverty, scarcity, and the spiritual values often emphasized in the New Testament over material possessions.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of λιπαρός (liparós, `{{G3045}}`) in [[Revelation 18:14]] carries profound theological weight. It is strategically placed within the prophetic judgment against Babylon, which represents the epitome of worldly power, economic exploitation, and spiritual apostasy. The "dainty things" symbolize the allure and deceptive satisfaction of earthly wealth, luxury, and sensual pleasures that captivate human hearts and lead them away from God.
The abrupt and irreversible loss of these λιπαρά signifies God's decisive judgment against systems and individuals that prioritize material accumulation and self-indulgence over righteousness and devotion to Him. It underscores the fleeting nature of all worldly possessions and the ultimate futility of placing one's hope in them. The theological message is clear: true and lasting treasure is not found in earthly opulence but in adherence to God's will and the pursuit of His kingdom ([[Matthew 6:19-21]]). The destruction of Babylon's λιπαρά serves as a powerful warning against covetousness and a call to discern between temporary human glory and eternal divine glory.
### Summary
The Greek word λιπαρός (liparós, `{{G3045}}`) literally means "fat" or "oily," extending to "sumptuous," "luxurious," or "dainty." Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Revelation 18:14]] is highly significant, describing the "dainty things" lost by Babylon the Great. Paired with λαμπρός (splendid, `{{G2986}}`), it emphasizes the opulent and desirable material possessions that characterized Babylon's self-indulgent lifestyle. Theologically, λιπαρός serves as a stark symbol of the transient and ultimately empty nature of worldly wealth and pleasure when pursued apart from God. Its sudden disappearance in the context of divine judgment underscores the biblical teaching on the futility of earthly treasures and the righteous condemnation of systems built on materialism and opposition to God.
TRV