### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **salpízō**, represented by `{{G4537}}`, means to **trumpet** or sound a blast. Appearing **13 times** across **12 unique verses**, it is derived from the noun σάλπιγξ, meaning trumpet. The term is used both literally and figuratively to describe the act of sounding a blast to signal a significant event.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4537}}` is used in several key contexts. It is most prominent in the book of Revelation, where a sequence of seven angels **sound** their trumpets to initiate divine judgments upon the earth [[Revelation 8:7]]. For instance, when the fourth angel **sounded**, a third of the sun, moon, and stars were struck [[Revelation 8:12]]. The verb also signals the ultimate climax of God's plan, as at the "last trump... the trumpet shall **sound**, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible" [[1 Corinthians 15:52]]. In a figurative sense, Jesus uses the term to warn his followers not to **sound a trumpet** before them when giving alms, as hypocrites do to receive glory from men [[Matthew 6:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of divine proclamation and sound:
* `{{G4536}}` **sálpinx**: Defined as a **trumpet**, this is the noun form from which `{{G4537}}` is derived. It refers to the instrument itself, which accompanies major divine events like the resurrection at the "last **trump**" [[1 Corinthians 15:52]] and the descent of the Lord with the "**trump** of God" [[1 Thessalonians 4:16]].
* `{{G5456}}` **phōnḗ**: This word for a **tone, sound,** or **voice** is frequently associated with the trumpet's blast. When the seventh angel **sounded**, "great **voices**" were heard in heaven proclaiming Christ's reign [[Revelation 11:15]]. Its importance is also seen in Revelation, where an angel cries with a loud **voice** of woe for the earth before the final three angels are yet to **sound** [[Revelation 8:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4537}}` is significant, marking pivotal moments in scripture.
* **Herald of Judgment:** In Revelation, the act to **sound** a trumpet is the direct trigger for apocalyptic judgments. The first angel **sounded**, and hail and fire were cast upon the earth [[Revelation 8:7]]; the fifth angel **sounded**, and the key to the bottomless pit was given [[Revelation 9:1]].
* **Signal of Resurrection and Climax:** The verb is tied to the ultimate hope of believers. The trumpet will **sound** to signal the resurrection of the dead and the transformation of the living [[1 Corinthians 15:52]]. The **sound** of the seventh angel's trumpet marks the moment when "the mystery of God should be finished" [[Revelation 10:7]].
* **Metaphor for Hypocrisy:** In the Gospels, the term serves as a powerful metaphor. To **sound a trumpet** is to perform religious acts for public acclaim rather than for God, a practice of hypocrites who have already received their reward [[Matthew 6:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4537}}` is far more than a simple verb for making a noise. It is a term loaded with theological significance, used to announce divine judgment, signal the resurrection of the dead, and proclaim the final victory of Christ's kingdom. From the series of trumpet blasts in Revelation to the figurative warning in Matthew, to **sound** a trumpet is to mark an event of eternal consequence.
TRV