### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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