### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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