The Greek word ómbros, represented by G3655, is defined as a shower or a thunder storm. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, highlighting its specific and limited application.
The sole biblical use of G3655 is found in an observation made by Jesus to the crowds. In Luke 12:54, he points out their ability to interpret natural signs, saying, "When ye see a cloud rise out of the west, straightway ye say, There cometh a shower; and so it is." The word here is used in its most literal sense to describe a rain shower that is predictably preceded by a cloud.
The context of G3655 is illuminated by the words used alongside it:
- G3507 nephélē (a cloud): A cloud is the sign that precedes the shower G3655 in Luke 12:54. Elsewhere in scripture, clouds are associated with the divine presence, such as the voice of God speaking from a cloud Matthew 17:5 and the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven Matthew 24:30.
- G2064 érchomai (to come or go): This verb describes the arrival of the shower, as in "There cometh a shower" Luke 12:54. This same word is used to describe the mission of Jesus, who states he has come to seek and save the lost Luke 19:10 and that no one cometh to the Father except through him John 14:6.
While G3655 itself has a limited theological scope, its usage highlights a broader biblical principle:
- Observing Natural Signs: The mention of a shower in Luke 12:54 is part of a lesson from Jesus about interpretation. The people could easily predict a literal shower from a cloud, showing an understanding of cause and effect in the natural world.
- Imminent Arrival: The relationship between the cloud and the shower serves as a metaphor for divine action. Just as the shower predictably cometh G2064 after the cloud G3507 appears, other events foretold in scripture are certain to arrive after their preceding signs appear. For example, the Son of man is described as coming with clouds Revelation 1:7.
In summary, G3655 ómbros is a simple and direct term for a shower. Its single appearance in scripture is a literal one, used by Jesus as a common-sense example of interpreting signs Luke 12:54. Though not a major theological term on its own, it functions within a framework of signs and arrivals, connecting it to related concepts like the cloud G3507 as a harbinger and the act of coming G2064, which often carries profound spiritual meaning. It illustrates how an everyday natural event can be used to teach a lesson about watchfulness and interpretation.
TRV