The Greek word plátos, represented by G4114, is a term for breadth. Derived from a word meaning width, it appears 4 times across 3 unique verses in scripture. Its usage helps define both literal, physical space and vast, figurative concepts.
In its biblical occurrences, G4114 is used to describe dimension and scale. Figuratively, it is part of a list of dimensions—breadth, length, depth, and height—that the saints are encouraged to comprehend Ephesians 3:18. In Revelation, it is used literally to describe the vastness of the earth across which armies gather Revelation 20:9. It is also used twice as a key measurement of the New Jerusalem, which is described as a perfect foursquare city where the length, breadth, and height are equal Revelation 21:16.
Several related dimensional words appear alongside plátos, often to convey a sense of completeness:
- G3372 mēkos (length): This word for length is paired directly with breadth in the description of the New Jerusalem Revelation 21:16 and in the call to spiritual comprehension Ephesians 3:18.
- G5311 hýpsos (height): Defined as elevation or altitude, this term for height completes the three-dimensional description of the New Jerusalem, which is equal in length, breadth, and height Revelation 21:16. It also appears with breadth in Ephesians 3:18.
- G899 báthos (depth): Meaning profundity or mystery, this word for depth is used with breadth, length, and height to describe the full scope of what believers should seek to understand Ephesians 3:18.
The use of G4114 highlights key theological concepts through the language of measurement and space.
- All-Encompassing Dimensions: In Ephesians, the call to comprehend the breadth, length, depth, and height points to the immeasurable and all-encompassing nature of a divine reality that is to be understood by all saints Ephesians 3:18.
- Divine Perfection: The specific and equal measurements of the New Jerusalem, where the breadth is as large as the length and height, symbolize the city's divine origin, perfection, and completeness Revelation 21:16.
- Global Scope: The reference to the "breadth of the earth" establishes the worldwide scale of the events described in Revelation, showing that the conflict involves the entire world Revelation 20:9.
In summary, G4114 is more than a simple word for width. It functions as a key descriptor for both the physical world and spiritual truths. Whether measuring the perfect structure of the holy city Revelation 21:16 or illustrating the vast scope of the earth Revelation 20:9, plátos provides a sense of scale. When joined with other dimensional terms, it challenges believers to grasp a reality that is complete, perfect, and immeasurably vast Ephesians 3:18.
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