### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **porphýra**, represented by `{{G4209}}`, refers to the color **purple** or, by implication, a garment dyed with it. Originating from the name of the "purple" mussel used to create the dye, this term appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. It consistently denotes luxury, wealth, and high status.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4209}}` appears in several distinct contexts that highlight its symbolic weight. It is famously used to describe the clothing of a **rich** man who "was clothed in **purple** and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day" [[Luke 16:19]]. The color is also listed among the most valuable merchandise of the great city in Revelation, alongside **gold**, **precious** stones, and **silk** [[Revelation 18:12]]. In a display of corrupt opulence, a woman is seen "arrayed in **purple** and scarlet colour" [[Revelation 17:4]]. Conversely, the term is used in the mocking of Jesus, when soldiers "clothed him with **purple**" before his crucifixion, twisting a symbol of royalty into an instrument of scorn ([[Mark 15:17]], [[Mark 15:20]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to define the context in which **purple** appears:
* `{{G4145}}` **ploúsios** (wealthy; figuratively, abounding with): This adjective is used to explicitly describe the man who wears **purple** as **rich**, directly linking the color to material abundance [[Luke 16:19]].
* `{{G1040}}` **býssos** (white linen): Often mentioned with **purple**, **fine linen** was another costly fabric that signified a luxurious lifestyle, as seen in the attire of the rich man [[Luke 16:19]] and the goods of the doomed city [[Revelation 18:12]].
* `{{G2847}}` **kókkinos** (crimson-colored): This color is paired with **purple** to describe the extravagant and corrupt attire of the woman in Revelation, emphasizing her splendor [[Revelation 17:4]].
* `{{G174}}` **akánthinos** (thorny): The crown **of thorns** was placed on Jesus' head as he was being mocked with a **purple** robe, contrasting the symbol of royal power with an object of immense pain [[Mark 15:17]].
### Theological Significance
The symbolic meaning of `{{G4209}}` is multifaceted, representing both worldly power and its corruption.
* **Worldly Wealth and Status:** **Purple** is consistently used to signify great wealth and a luxurious lifestyle. This is exemplified by the **rich** man who was clothed in **purple** daily [[Luke 16:19]] and its inclusion in the list of valuable merchandise [[Revelation 18:12]].
* **Corrupt Authority:** The color is associated with the corrupt power of the great city in Revelation. The woman arrayed in **purple** and scarlet represents a system decked in opulence but full of abominations [[Revelation 17:4]].
* **Mockery of Kingship:** In a starkly different context, a **purple** garment is used to mock Jesus's kingship during his passion. The soldiers clothed him in **purple** and a crown of thorns, using a symbol of honor to inflict humiliation [[Mark 15:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4209}}` is a powerful symbol of earthly grandeur. As **porphýra**, it represents the pinnacle of wealth, worn by the rich and traded as a precious commodity. However, its meaning is shaped by its context, signifying not only the luxury of the wealthy [[Luke 16:19]] but also the decadent corruption of worldly systems [[Revelation 17:4]]. Ultimately, this symbol of royalty is inverted when used to mock Christ, demonstrating how the highest emblems of human power can be employed in defiance of divine authority [[Mark 15:17]].
TRV