### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sákkos**, represented by `{{G4526}}`, is of Hebrew origin and refers to **"sack"-cloth**. This term denotes mohair, both as a material and as the garments made from it, which are worn as a sign of grief. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4526}}` is used primarily as a powerful symbol of mourning, repentance, and solemnity. Jesus uses it to illustrate a potential response of deep repentance, stating that the cities of Tyre and Sidon would have repented in **sackcloth** and ashes if they had witnessed his mighty works ([[Matthew 11:21]]; [[Luke 10:13]]). In the book of Revelation, it describes the somber clothing of the two witnesses during their prophecy [[Revelation 11:3]] and is also used in a cosmic metaphor where the sun becomes "black as **sackcloth** of hair" during the opening of the sixth seal [[Revelation 6:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the use of sackcloth:
* `{{G3340}}` **metanoéō** (to think differently or afterwards, i.e. reconsider (morally, feel compunction):--repent): This word is directly linked to the purpose of wearing sackcloth, which serves as the outward sign of the inner repentance Jesus describes [[Matthew 11:21]].
* `{{G4700}}` **spodós** (ashes): This term for **ashes** is consistently paired with sackcloth to signify the deepest form of humility and grief before God [[Luke 10:13]].
* `{{G5155}}` **tríchinos** (hairy, i.e. made of hair (mohair):--of hair): This word clarifies the rough, coarse nature of the material, emphasizing its association with discomfort and mourning. It is used to describe the **sackcloth** in the vision of the sun turning black [[Revelation 6:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4526}}` is found in its consistent use as a visual representation of a profound spiritual state.
* **Sign of Repentance:** Wearing **sackcloth** is an external act that demonstrates an internal state of contrition and a turning away from sin. It is the physical posture of one who sits in ashes and repents [[Luke 10:13]].
* **Emblem of Solemnity:** The two witnesses are clothed in **sackcloth**, signifying the gravity of their prophetic message and the state of mourning appropriate for the times they speak into [[Revelation 11:3]].
* **Symbol of Judgment:** The word is used metaphorically to convey divine judgment, where the darkening of the sun is compared to **sackcloth** of hair, linking the imagery of grief to a cataclysmic, world-altering event [[Revelation 6:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4526}}` is far more than a simple reference to a type of fabric. It is a key biblical symbol that communicates deep sorrow, profound repentance, and the gravity of divine judgment. From a personal act of turning back to God to a sign of cosmic upheaval, **sákkos** provides a powerful and visceral image of humanity's response to the sacred.
TRV