The Greek word plēgḗ, represented by G4127, primarily means a stroke. By implication, it can be a wound, and figuratively, it signifies a calamity. It appears 21 times across 20 verses and is most often translated as plague, stripe, or wound. This term covers a range of meanings from physical blows to divine judgments.
In scripture, G4127 is used in several distinct ways. It describes physical punishment in the form of stripes, such as those laid upon Paul and Silas before they were imprisoned Acts 16:23. Paul lists receiving stripes "above measure" as part of the hardships he endured as a minister of Christ 2 Corinthians 11:23. It also refers to a literal wound, as seen in the parable where a man was left half dead after thieves wounded him Luke 10:30. Most frequently, it appears in Revelation to denote the divine plagues poured out as judgment upon the earth Revelation 15:1, including the final plague of hail Revelation 16:21.
Several related words help clarify the meaning of G4127:
- G1194 dérō: This verb means to scourge or to thrash. It describes the action that results in the stripes G4127 mentioned in the context of divine discipline Luke 12:48.
- G2007 epitíthēmi: Meaning to impose or lay upon, this word is used in conjunction with G4127 to describe the act of inflicting a wound upon someone, as when the thieves attacked the traveler Luke 10:30.
- G3960 patássō: Meaning to smite or strike, this word is used to describe the action of unleashing divine calamities. In Revelation, the two witnesses are given power to smite the earth with all plagues G4127 as they see fit Revelation 11:6.
The theological significance of G4127 is multifaceted, illustrating principles of consequence and judgment.
- Punishment and Discipline: The use of G4127 as "stripes" establishes a clear theme of accountability. This applies to both earthly punishment Acts 16:23 and the divine principle that knowledge of God's will carries greater responsibility Luke 12:48.
- Divine Judgment: In Revelation, plagues are the ultimate expression of God's wrath G2372 against an unrepentant world Revelation 15:1. These events are not random but are specific, controlled judgments over which God has power G1849 Revelation 16:9.
- Symbol of Deception and Suffering: The term is used for the deadly wound of the beast, which, when healed, becomes a source of deception for the world Revelation 13:3. For believers, receiving stripes is also portrayed as a component of suffering for the gospel 2 Corinthians 6:5.
In summary, G4127 is a potent word that moves from the literal to the figurative, from a physical blow to an apocalyptic calamity. It functions to describe the consequences of sin, whether through human-inflicted punishment, righteous discipline, or the final outpouring of God's judgment. The word vividly portrays the severe reality of suffering, punishment, and divine wrath in scripture.
TRV