apparently another form of πλάσσω (through the idea of flattening out); to pound, i.e. (figuratively) to inflict with (calamity):--smite. Compare τύπτω.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **plḗssō**, represented by `{{G4141}}`, means to pound or, figuratively, to inflict with calamity. Its base definition is to **smite**. This word is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in a single verse in the entire Bible, highlighting its specific and impactful usage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G4141}}` is in the apocalyptic vision of Revelation. When the fourth angel sounds his trumpet, a series of cosmic judgments unfold. A third of the sun, a third of the moon, and a third of the stars are **smitten** [[Revelation 8:12]]. This divine act directly results in the darkening of these celestial bodies, causing a third of the day to be without light and the night likewise. The context is one of a partial, controlled judgment affecting the very fabric of the created order.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and consequence of being **smitten**:
* `{{G4537}}` **salpízō** (to trumpet, i.e. sound a blast): This action by the angel initiates the judgment. The sounding of a trumpet signals a major divine event, in this case, the calamity that follows [[Revelation 8:12]].
* `{{G4654}}` **skotízō** (to obscure): This is the direct result of the celestial bodies being smitten. The light of the sun, moon, and stars is **darkened**, demonstrating the physical consequence of the strike [[Revelation 8:12]]. This same word is used to describe the sun being **darkened** during the tribulation [[Matthew 24:29]].
* `{{G2246}}` **hḗlios** (the sun): As a primary object of this judgment, the **sun** being smitten shows that the calamity is aimed at the foundational sources of light and life for the world [[Revelation 8:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4141}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful use. It conveys a specific aspect of divine judgment.
* **Sovereignty over Creation:** The act of smiting the sun, moon, and stars demonstrates God's absolute authority over the cosmos. The foundations of the physical world are subject to His power and judgment [[Revelation 8:12]].
* **Measured Calamity:** The strike is precisely limited to "the third part" of the celestial bodies. This shows that the judgment, while catastrophic, is not a final destruction but a measured and specific act of warning [[Revelation 8:12]].
* **Figurative Strike:** The word's figurative sense of inflicting a calamity is on full display. The heavens are not physically pounded but are "smitten" with a plague of darkness, fulfilling the definition of the word.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4141}}` **plḗssō** is a term reserved for a moment of significant divine intervention in Revelation. Though used only once, its meaning is clear and potent: to strike with a calamitous judgment. It describes an act of divine power against the created order itself, serving as a severe warning within a sequence of apocalyptic events. The smiting of the heavens results in a partial darkness, illustrating God's sovereignty and the controlled nature of His judgment.
TRV