### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **porphyroûs**, represented by `{{G4210}}`, is a term for **purple**, specifically meaning purpureal or bluish red. It is a rare word, appearing only **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its significance comes from its strong association with royalty and immense wealth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4210}}` is used in two distinct contexts. In the Gospel of John, it describes the **purple** robe `{{G2440}}` that Roman soldiers `{{G4757}}` put on Jesus to mock his kingship after platting `{{G4120}}` a crown of thorns [[John 19:2]]. Jesus is then presented wearing the crown of thorns `{{G174}}` and the **purple** robe [[John 19:5]]. In contrast, Revelation uses **purple** to describe the extravagant clothing of the great city, symbolizing its decadent wealth alongside fine linen `{{G1039}}`, scarlet `{{G2847}}`, gold `{{G5557}}`, and precious stones `{{G3037}}` [[Revelation 18:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context in which **purple** appears:
* `{{G2440}}` **himátion** (a dress... robe): This is the specific garment that was colored **purple** and placed on Jesus during his passion ([[John 19:2]], [[John 19:5]]).
* `{{G1039}}` **býssinos** (made of linen... fine linen): This luxury fabric is mentioned directly alongside **purple** and scarlet in the description of the great city's wealth, underscoring its opulence [[Revelation 18:16]].
* `{{G2847}}` **kókkinos** (crimson-colored... scarlet): This color is also paired with **purple** to describe the clothing of the wealthy city, highlighting the use of expensive dyes as a sign of status and riches [[Revelation 18:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4210}}` is found in its powerful symbolism.
* **Mockery of True Kingship:** The soldiers used a **purple** robe, a symbol of royalty, to ridicule Jesus. This act, combined with the crown `{{G4735}}` of thorns `{{G173}}`, was intended as a sarcastic homage to his kingship [[John 19:2]].
* **Emblem of Worldly Corruption:** In Revelation, being clothed in **purple** characterizes the great city destined for judgment. It represents the transient glory and material excess of a worldly system, decked `{{G5558}}` with gold `{{G5557}}`, precious `{{G5093}}` stones `{{G3037}}`, and pearls `{{G3135}}` [[Revelation 18:16]].
* **Contrast of Values:** The word's usage creates a stark contrast between Christ's kingdom and the world's. In John, the symbol of royal authority is used for humiliation, while in Revelation, it represents the corrupt power and wealth that will ultimately perish.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4210}}` is more than just a color. Though used sparingly, it serves as a potent symbol. It simultaneously represents the royal authority of Christ, which was mocked by the world, and the corrupt, opulent luxury of worldly systems that face divine judgment. The word **purple** thus captures the profound biblical tension between earthly and heavenly kingdoms.
TRV