### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **selḗnē**, represented by `{{G4582}}`, refers to the **moon**. Derived from a word indicating brilliancy and attractiveness, it appears **9 times** across **9 unique verses** in the Bible. It consistently appears alongside the sun and stars as a key celestial body in both creation and prophecy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4582}}` is frequently used in passages describing cosmic events and eschatological signs. The **moon** is often depicted as being affected during times of divine judgment, such as being darkened [[Matthew 24:29]] or a third part of it being smitten [[Revelation 8:12]]. It is prophesied to be turned into **blood** `{{G129}}` before the great and notable day of the Lord [[Acts 2:20]]. In a symbolic vision, a woman appears clothed with the sun, with the **moon** under her feet [[Revelation 12:1]]. Ultimately, in the new creation, the city of God will have no need of the **moon**, as the glory of God will be its light [[Revelation 21:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the significance of the **moon**:
* `{{G2246}}` **hḗlios** (the sun): This word is almost always found in proximity to **selḗnē**, establishing the pair as the primary celestial lights. Prophecies often describe them being affected together, such as the **sun** being darkened while the **moon** does not give her light [[Mark 13:24]].
* `{{G4592}}` **sēmeîon** (sign): This term highlights the prophetic role of the celestial bodies. The **moon** is explicitly named as one of the **signs** in the heavens that will signal distress of nations upon the earth [[Luke 21:25]].
* `{{G1391}}` **dóxa** (glory): This word describes the distinct nature of the **moon**. Scripture speaks of the unique **glory** of the sun, **moon**, and stars to illustrate different levels of honor [[1 Corinthians 15:41]]. It is this divine **glory** that will one day make the **moon's** light unnecessary [[Revelation 21:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4582}}` is significant, particularly in eschatology.
* **Prophetic Signage:** The state of the **moon** serves as a divine indicator of coming judgment and the tribulation. Its darkening or turning to blood acts as a celestial warning of the "great and notable day of the Lord" ([[Acts 2:20]], [[Revelation 6:12]]).
* **Symbol of Creation's Order:** The **moon** is presented as a part of the created order, having its own distinct **glory** `{{G1391}}` as ordained by God. This is used to illustrate the principle of different glories in the resurrection [[1 Corinthians 15:41]].
* **Supremacy of Divine Light:** The future state described in Revelation shows that created light-bearers like the **moon** will be superseded. The presence of God's own **glory** `{{G1391}}` and the **Lamb** `{{G721}}` as the city's **light** `{{G3088}}` demonstrates that all created things are temporary and point to a greater, eternal reality [[Revelation 21:23]].
### Summary
In summary, **selḗnē** `{{G4582}}` is far more than a simple astronomical term in the Bible. It functions as a foundational element in prophecy, serving as a **sign** `{{G4592}}` of God's mighty acts and the coming end of the age. From its distinct **glory** in the present creation to its dramatic alteration in eschatological events and its eventual obsolescence in the eternal city, the **moon** consistently points beyond itself to the supreme power and glory of God.
TRV