The Greek word potamophórētos, represented by G4216, describes the state of being river-borne or overwhelmed by a stream. This highly specific term appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, making its single usage particularly significant. It is formed from the words for river and to bear or carry.
The sole appearance of G4216 is in the apocalyptic imagery of Revelation. The verse describes the serpent G3789 casting water G5204 from his mouth G4750 like a flood G4215 in pursuit of the woman G1135. The serpent's intent is explicit: "that G2443 he might cause G4160 her G5026 to be carried away of the flood G4216" Revelation 12:15. This context frames the word as an instrument of a malicious and overwhelming attack.
Several related words from its context help illuminate the meaning of G4216:
- G4215 potamós (flood, river, stream, water): This is the root word for G4216, meaning "a current, brook or freshet." It establishes the overwhelming, river-like nature of the attack in Revelation 12:15 and contrasts with the life-giving river seen elsewhere Revelation 22:1.
- G3789 óphis (serpent): Defined as "a snake, figuratively, (as a type of sly cunning) an artful malicious person, especially Satan," this word identifies the source of the attack. It is the serpent who attempts to cause the woman to be carried away by the flood Revelation 12:15.
- G906 bállō (cast, throw): This verb describes the violent action taken by the serpent. He doesn't just release water, he casts it out, emphasizing the force and intent behind the flood Revelation 12:15.
- G1135 gynḗ (woman, wife): This word identifies the target of the serpent's assault. In this context, the woman is the one who is threatened with being overwhelmed by the flood Revelation 12:15.
The theological weight of G4216 is concentrated in its single, dramatic appearance. It powerfully illustrates several key concepts:
- Satanic Warfare: The word is used exclusively to describe an attack by the serpent G3789, who is identified as Satan Revelation 12:9. Being "carried away of the flood" thus represents a specific form of spiritual warfare aimed at overwhelming and destroying God's people.
- Overwhelming Opposition: The imagery of a flood or massive river suggests a force that is seemingly irresistible and all-consuming. The term captures the feeling of being deluged by trials, persecution, or deception unleashed by the enemy Revelation 12:15.
- Weaponized Words and Deception: The flood originates from the serpent's mouth G4750, suggesting that the overwhelming attack may be one of lies, accusations, or false doctrines designed to sweep believers away from their foundation in truth.
In summary, G4216 is a vivid and specific term that, despite its single use, carries immense theological weight. Occurring only in Revelation 12:15, potamophórētos encapsulates the concept of a massive, destructive assault launched by Satan. It serves as a powerful metaphor for the overwhelming spiritual opposition believers may face, an onslaught designed to sweep them away entirely.
TRV