### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **píptō**, represented by `{{G4098}}`, is a versatile verb meaning **to fall**, both in a literal and figurative sense. It appears **93 times** across **85 unique verses**, used to describe everything from a physical collapse to a moral or spiritual failure. Its definition encompasses actions like alighting, failing, or falling down.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4098}}` is used in a variety of powerful contexts. It frequently describes an act of reverence or worship, as when the wise men **fell down** and worshipped the young child Jesus [[Matthew 2:11]], or when the twenty-four elders **fall down** before the Lamb [[Revelation 4:10]]. It is also used to depict divine judgment and collapse, such as the great city Babylon that **is fallen** [[Revelation 18:2]], the house built on sand that **fell** [[Matthew 7:27]], and the stars that **shall fall** from heaven [[Matthew 24:29]]. The word can also signify a spiritual warning, cautioning believers to take heed lest they **fall** [[1 Corinthians 10:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify and expand upon the concept of falling:
* `{{G2476}}` **hístēmi** (to stand): This word serves as a direct contrast to falling, often used to describe stability and perseverance. It is used in opposition to `{{G4098}}` in the warning that he who thinks he **standeth** should take heed lest he fall [[1 Corinthians 10:12]].
* `{{G4417}}` **ptaíō** (to trip, err, sin, fail): This term is often used for stumbling into sin or error. It is distinguished from a complete fall in [[Romans 11:11]], which asks if Israel has **stumbled** that they should **fall**.
* `{{G4431}}` **ptōsis** (a crash, downfall): This noun form describes the result of falling. It is used to emphasize the disastrous outcome for the house built on sand, noting that great was the **fall** of it [[Matthew 7:27]].
* `{{G1581}}` **ekkóptō** (to exscind; figuratively, to frustrate): This word describes being "cut off," which is presented as the consequence for those who do not continue in God's goodness, in contrast to those who have already **fallen** [[Romans 11:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4098}}` is significant, touching on themes of worship, judgment, and human frailty.
* **Act of Worship:** Falling down is the primary physical posture of submission and adoration before a divine being. The disciples **fell** on their face in fear [[Matthew 17:6]], and John **fell** at the feet of an angel to worship him [[Revelation 19:10]].
* **Consequence of Judgment:** The term is repeatedly used to describe the ultimate defeat of God's enemies. Satan is seen as lightning **fall** from heaven [[Luke 10:18]], and the great city Babylon **is fallen, is fallen** [[Revelation 18:2]], signifying total and irreversible judgment.
* **Moral and Spiritual Failure:** `{{G4098}}` serves as a potent metaphor for sin and apostasy. Believers are warned not to **fall** into condemnation [[James 5:12]] or after an example of unbelief [[Hebrews 4:11]].
* **Foundation and Stability:** The stability of a structure, and by extension a person's life, is proven by whether it **falls** under pressure. The house on the rock **fell not** [[Matthew 7:25]], while the one without a foundation **fell** [[Luke 6:49]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4098}}` conveys much more than a simple physical action. It is a critical word for understanding key biblical concepts. From the posture of absolute reverence before God to the catastrophic collapse of kingdoms and the subtle danger of spiritual failure, **píptō** illustrates the profound consequences of one's position and foundation, whether in relation to God or to the trials of the world.
TRV