### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **mýlos**, represented by `{{G3458}}`, refers to a "mill" or, by implication, a "millstone". It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is used both literally as a grinder and powerfully as a symbol of final, irreversible judgment and desolation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Gospels, `{{G3458}}` illustrates the severe consequences of causing a believer to sin. In both Matthew and Luke, it is stated that it would be better for a person who offends one of the "little ones" to have a **millstone** hung around his neck and be drowned in the sea ([[Matthew 18:6]], [[Luke 17:2]]). In Revelation, the term is used symbolically to depict the fall of Babylon. A mighty angel casts a stone like a great **millstone** into the sea to show how violently the city will be thrown down [[Revelation 18:21]]. Following this, the "sound of a **millstone**" is listed among the signs of daily life that will be heard no more in the desolate city [[Revelation 18:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and weight of `{{G3458}}`:
* `{{G3684}}` **onikós** (belonging to a ass, i.e. large): This adjective is paired with **millstone** to specify that it is a large one, turned by a donkey, emphasizing its immense weight and the inescapable nature of the judgment described [[Matthew 18:6]].
* `{{G2281}}` **thálassa** (the sea): The **sea** is the destination for the one punished with a millstone, signifying a final and overwhelming end [[Luke 17:2]]. It is also where the symbolic millstone representing Babylon is cast [[Revelation 18:21]].
* `{{G906}}` **bállō** (to throw): This verb describes the violent action taken with the millstone-like rock, illustrating the sudden and forceful nature of Babylon's judgment as it is **thrown down** [[Revelation 18:21]].
* `{{G4496}}` **rhíptō** (to fling): A similar verb used in the parallel account, describing how the condemned person is **cast** into the sea [[Luke 17:2]].
* `{{G2670}}` **katapontízō** (to plunge down, i.e. submerge): This word explicitly describes the result of being cast into the sea with a millstone: to be **drowned** [[Matthew 18:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G3458}}` is centered on themes of divine judgment and its consequences.
* **Irreversible Judgment:** The image of being cast into the sea with a millstone symbolizes a punishment that is final and from which there is no return. This is applied to both individuals who cause others to sin and to the corrupt system of Babylon ([[Matthew 18:6]], [[Revelation 18:21]]).
* **Gravity of Sin:** Its use in the Gospels serves as a stark warning about the extreme seriousness of leading "little ones" astray. The punishment described is one of the most severe mentioned, highlighting God's protective stance over believers [[Luke 17:2]].
* **The End of Normalcy:** The silencing of the "sound of a millstone" signifies the complete end of society, productivity, and sustenance. It represents a total desolation where the basic activities of life have ceased entirely [[Revelation 18:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3458}}` functions as more than a simple noun for a grinding tool. It is a potent biblical symbol representing the absolute finality of God's judgment. Whether depicting the fate of an individual who causes harm to the faithful or the violent overthrow of a corrupt world system, the **millstone** conveys a message of inescapable, severe, and conclusive divine reckoning.
TRV