### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pétomai**, represented by `{{G4072}}`, is a primary verb used to mean **to fly**. It appears 5 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible. Its use is confined entirely to the book of Revelation, where it describes the movement of celestial beings and symbolic figures.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4072}}` is used exclusively to depict supernatural or significant actions within apocalyptic visions. It describes angels moving through the "midst of heaven" to deliver critical messages, such as the everlasting gospel [[Revelation 14:6]] or to announce coming woes upon the earth [[Revelation 8:13]]. The term is also applied to symbolic creatures, including the fourth beast around the throne, which was "like a flying eagle" [[Revelation 4:7]]. It further illustrates divine protection, as the woman in the wilderness is given wings so that she might **fly** to safety from the serpent [[Revelation 12:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the concept of flight:
* `{{G105}}` **aetós**: This word means **an eagle**. It is directly linked to the act of flying in Revelation, as seen with the fourth beast described as a "flying **eagle**" [[Revelation 4:7]] and the woman who is given "wings of a great **eagle**, that she might fly" [[Revelation 12:14]].
* `{{G4420}}` **ptéryx**: Meaning **a wing**, this word is derived from `{{G4072}}`. It is essential for the action of flying, most notably in the passage where the woman is given two **wings** to enable her escape [[Revelation 12:14]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G4072}}` is tied to its exclusive use in Revelation's imagery.
* **Celestial Messengers:** The word emphasizes the swiftness and divine authority of angels as they traverse the heavens to execute God's will. Angels are seen **flying** to make proclamations to all of humanity ([[Revelation 14:6]], [[Revelation 8:13]]).
* **Symbolic Representation:** The act of **flying** is attributed to powerful symbolic figures. The fourth beast's description as a "flying eagle" [[Revelation 4:7]] conveys a sense of majesty, power, and a heavenly perspective.
* **Divine Deliverance:** The word illustrates a means of supernatural escape and protection. The woman who is enabled to **fly** into the wilderness is a clear picture of God providing a way to be preserved from her persecutor [[Revelation 12:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4072}}` is a specific and potent action verb used in the Bible to convey more than simple movement. Reserved for the visions of Revelation, it signifies the supernatural, swift, and authoritative motion of beings acting on a divine stage. Whether describing an angel, a symbolic beast, or a figure under God's protection, **pétomai** enhances the grand and otherworldly nature of the apocalyptic narrative.
TRV