### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word πέμπτος (pémptos, `{{G3991}}`) is an ordinal numeral, meaning "fifth." It is directly derived from the cardinal number πέντε (pénte, `{{G4002}}`), meaning "five." Its semantic range is strictly limited to indicating position within an ordered sequence, denoting the item that comes after the fourth and before the sixth. It does not inherently carry additional metaphorical or symbolic meaning beyond its numerical and sequential function, though the broader context of the "fifth" item in a series may carry theological weight.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of πέμπτος (pémptos, `{{G3991}}`) in the New Testament are exclusively found within the apocalyptic visions of the Book of Revelation. In each instance, it serves to mark the fifth stage or element in a divinely orchestrated series of events or descriptions:
* **[[Revelation 6:9]]**: "When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained." Here, πέμπτος denotes the opening of the fifth in a series of seven seals, revealing the martyrs' cry for justice, marking a significant progression in the unfolding judgments.
* **[[Revelation 9:1]]**: "The fifth angel sounded his trumpet, and I saw a star that had fallen from the sky to the earth. The star was given the key to the shaft of the Abyss." This passage introduces the fifth trumpet judgment, unleashing demonic locusts upon the earth, signifying a further intensification of divine wrath.
* **[[Revelation 16:10]]**: "The fifth angel poured out his bowl on the throne of the beast, and its kingdom was plunged into darkness. People gnawed their tongues in agony..." This describes the pouring out of the fifth bowl of God's wrath, directly impacting the beast's kingdom with darkness and torment, indicating a targeted and severe judgment.
* **[[Revelation 21:20]]**: "the fifth, sardonyx..." In the description of the New Jerusalem's foundations, πέμπτος identifies the fifth foundation stone as sardonyx. This context shifts from judgment to the ordered beauty and preciousness of God's eternal dwelling, highlighting the meticulous and perfect design of the heavenly city.
In each context, πέμπτος underscores a specific point in a sequence, emphasizing the structured and deliberate progression of God's plan, whether in judgment or in the establishment of His eternal kingdom.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **πέντε (pénte, `{{G4002}}`)**: The cardinal number "five," from which πέμπτος is derived. Understanding the root helps to grasp the basic numerical meaning.
* **Ordinal Numbers**: πέμπτος belongs to a class of words (e.g., πρῶτος `{{G4413}}` "first," δεύτερος `{{G1208}}` "second," τρίτος `{{G5154}}` "third") that establish sequence and order. Their consistent use in Revelation highlights the structured nature of prophetic fulfillment.
* **Biblical Numerology**: While πέμπτος primarily denotes order, the number "five" itself sometimes carries symbolic associations in biblical thought, such as grace (e.g., five loaves feeding five thousand), responsibility, or the Pentateuch (the five books of Moses). In the context of Revelation, the significance often lies in *what* is the fifth item, rather than intrinsic symbolism of the number alone. The progression through a series of seven (seals, trumpets, bowls) often implies a movement towards completion or finality.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of πέμπτος (pémptos, `{{G3991}}`) is deeply intertwined with its consistent usage in the Book of Revelation, revealing aspects of divine order, judgment, and creation.
* **Divine Order and Sovereignty**: The repeated use of πέμπτος within sequences of seven (seals, trumpets, bowls) emphasizes God's meticulous and sovereign control over history and prophecy. Events do not unfold randomly but according to a pre-ordained, precise divine plan. The "fifth" stage is a deliberate step in God's unfolding purposes, demonstrating His absolute authority.
* **Progression of Judgment**: In the context of the seals, trumpets, and bowls, the "fifth" judgment signifies a further, often intensified, step in God's righteous wrath against a rebellious world. It underscores the escalating nature of divine justice, demonstrating that God's patience is not limitless and His judgments are certain. Each "fifth" event marks a critical point in the unfolding of tribulation.
* **Completeness and Fulfillment**: As part of a series, the "fifth" element contributes to the overall sense of a divine plan moving inexorably towards its consummation. While not the final stage, it is a necessary and integral component in the journey towards the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive and judgmental purposes.
* **Perfection of the New Creation**: In [[Revelation 21:20]], the "fifth" foundation stone of the New Jerusalem signifies the ordered beauty and immutable perfection of God's eternal dwelling. Here, πέμπτος contributes to the imagery of a divinely designed, unshakeable city, where every detail, including the specific order of its foundations, is part of God's perfect plan for His redeemed people.
### Summary
The Greek word πέμπτος (pémptos, `{{G3991}}`) is an ordinal numeral meaning "fifth," derived from πέντε (pénte, `{{G4002}}`). Its usage in the New Testament is confined to the Book of Revelation, where it consistently denotes the fifth element in a sequence. Whether referring to the fifth seal ([[Revelation 6:9]]), the fifth trumpet ([[Revelation 9:1]]), the fifth bowl ([[Revelation 16:10]]), or the fifth foundation stone of the New Jerusalem ([[Revelation 21:20]]), πέμπτος highlights the precise and ordered nature of God's divine plan. Theologically, its occurrences underscore God's sovereignty over the progression of events, from the unfolding of judgments to the establishment of His perfect, eternal kingdom. It serves as a reminder that every stage of God's work, including the "fifth," is a deliberate and essential part of His comprehensive and ultimate design.
TRV