### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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