The Greek word mármaros, represented by G3139, is the term for marble. Derived from a root meaning "to glisten," it specifically refers to a sparkling white stone. It appears only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible, making its single usage highly specific.
The sole appearance of G3139 is within the Book of Revelation's detailed inventory of luxury goods. It is listed as part of the "merchandise" of the great city of Babylon, whose fall is being lamented by the merchants of the earth. In this context, marble is cataloged alongside other valuable materials like gold, silver, precious stones, ivory, and fine fabrics, signifying its status as a high-value commodity associated with wealth, power, and excess Revelation 18:12.
The items listed with marble in Revelation 18:12 illuminate its role as a luxury good. Several related words from this passage provide context:
- G1117 gómos (a load (as filling), i.e. (specially) a cargo, or (by extension) wares): This word frames the entire list, defining all the items, including marble, as the merchandise of a global commercial power Revelation 18:12.
- G5093 tímios (valuable, i.e. (objectively) costly, or (subjectively) honored, esteemed, or (figuratively) beloved): This term is used to describe the precious stones and wood in the same list, highlighting the great value placed on these materials.
- G3037 líthos (a stone (literally or figuratively)): This is the general word for stone. Its use in the phrase "precious stones" stands in contrast to the specific mention of marble, emphasizing that marble was a distinct and sought-after type of stone Revelation 18:12.
- G1661 elephántinos (elephantine, i.e. (by implication) composed of ivory): Like marble, this denotes a specific, valuable material, with the text mentioning "all manner vessels of ivory" as part of Babylon's opulent trade Revelation 18:12.
The theological weight of G3139 is drawn entirely from its context within the judgment of Babylon the Great.
- Symbol of Worldly Luxury: Marble is not mentioned as a neutral building material but as an article of commerce. Its inclusion in the list with gold, silver, and pearls firmly establishes it as a symbol of the worldly opulence and materialism that define the condemned city.
- An Indictment of Materialism: The catalog of goods in Revelation 18 is presented as a prophetic indictment. The mourning of the merchants is not for the city's people but for the loss of their market for goods like marble Revelation 18:11. This highlights a system where material wealth is valued above all else.
- Craftsmanship and Pride: As a prized material for building and sculpture, marble represents the height of human artistry and perceived permanence. Within the context of Babylon's fall, it symbolizes the pride and self-sufficiency of a human system that is ultimately judged and brought to ruin.
In summary, mármaros G3139 is a biblically rare word whose meaning is powerfully defined by its singular context. It is not just a type of stone but a symbol of the decadent wealth and commercial excess of the worldly system described in Revelation. Its presence in the list of Babylon's merchandise serves as a reminder that the treasures of the earth are temporary and subject to divine judgment.
TRV