### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pŷr**, represented by `{{G4442}}`, is a primary term for **fire**. It appears 74 times in 73 unique verses, used both literally and figuratively to represent a powerful and elemental force in scripture. Its applications range from a simple flame to a symbol of divine judgment, purification, and the very presence of God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4442}}` is used in several key contexts. It is a powerful agent of divine judgment, as seen in the descriptions of "hell **fire**" [[Matthew 5:22]] and the "everlasting **fire**" prepared for the devil and his angels [[Matthew 25:41]]. It is also the ultimate destination for the unrighteous, who are cast into the "lake of **fire**" [[Revelation 20:15]]. In a different context, fire represents a process of testing and purification, where the trial of faith is described as being more precious than gold that is tried with **fire** [[1 Peter 1:7]]. The word also denotes the awesome power and holiness of God, who is called a "consuming **fire**" [[Hebrews 12:29]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of fire, judgment, and divine power:
* `{{G1067}}` **géenna** (hell): This word, meaning "a name for the place (or state) of everlasting punishment," is often paired directly with pŷr to describe the final consequence of sin, as in "hell **fire**" [[Mark 9:47]].
* `{{G2303}}` **theîon** (brimstone): Defined as "sulphur," this word frequently appears alongside pŷr to describe the elements of divine wrath. The wicked are "tormented with **fire** and **brimstone**" [[Revelation 14:10]].
* `{{G5395}}` **phlóx** (flame): Meaning "a blaze," this term is used to depict the intensity of a divine appearance or action, such as when God takes vengeance in "flaming **fire**" [[2 Thessalonians 1:8]] or when the Son of God's eyes are described as a "**flame** of **fire**" [[Revelation 19:12]].
* `{{G2618}}` **katakaíō** (to burn down, i.e. consume wholly): This verb describes the complete destruction brought about by fire, such as when chaff is separated from wheat and will be burned up "with unquenchable **fire**" [[Matthew 3:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4442}}` is immense, representing some of the most profound realities of spiritual life and eschatology.
* **Divine Judgment:** Fire is a primary symbol of God's final judgment. Unfruitful trees are "cast into the **fire**" [[Matthew 7:19]], and the ultimate punishment is consignment to "the lake of **fire**," which is the second death [[Revelation 20:14]].
* **Spiritual Refining:** The scriptures use fire to illustrate the process of sanctification and the testing of a believer's work and faith. Every person's work will be "revealed by **fire**; and the **fire** shall try" it, with some being saved, "yet so as by **fire**" ([[1 Corinthians 3:13]], [[1 Corinthians 3:15]]).
* **Divine Power and Presence:** Fire is an emblem of God's holy presence and power. The Holy Spirit appeared as "cloven tongues like as of **fire**" [[Acts 2:3]], and Jesus is described with eyes like a "flame of **fire**" [[Revelation 1:14]], signifying His penetrating insight and authority.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4442}}` is far more than a word for a physical element. It is a cornerstone of biblical imagery, symbolizing the dual potential for divine purification and divine judgment. It powerfully illustrates God’s absolute holiness, His power to consume that which is evil, and His ability to refine that which is His. The concept of fire serves as a sober warning of consequences and a hopeful promise of purification.
TRV