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.
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.
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.
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.
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