### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term G4585 (σεμίδαλις, *semídalis*) denotes "fine wheaten flour." This definition emphasizes a particular quality of flour, specifically that which has been highly sifted and refined, distinguishing it from coarser grades. It represents flour of superior quality, suitable for specialized uses, often associated with purity or luxury. The etymological note suggesting a "foreign origin" for the word itself does not alter its semantic range within the biblical context, where its meaning is consistently tied to this high-grade flour.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word G4585 (σεμίδαλις) appears only once in the New Testament, in the book of Revelation:
* **[[Revelation 18:13]]**: "and cinnamon, and odours, and ointment, and frankincense, and wine, and oil, and fine flour, and wheat, and beasts, and sheep, and horses, and chariots, and slaves, and souls of men."
In this sole occurrence, *semídalis* is listed among an extensive inventory of commodities and luxury goods whose trade characterizes "Babylon the Great." The context is the lament of the merchants and shipmasters over the sudden destruction of this opulent city, which symbolizes the world system in rebellion against God. The inclusion of "fine flour" in this list underscores the city's vast material wealth, its extensive commercial enterprises, and its indulgence in luxury. Unlike the Old Testament usage of fine flour primarily for sacred offerings, here it is purely an item of worldly commerce and consumption, highlighting the city's economic power and its focus on earthly gain.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of "fine flour" holds significant parallels and contrasts within the broader biblical narrative. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew equivalent, `{{H5560}}` (סֹלֶת, *solet*), is frequently mentioned. *Solet* was the prescribed ingredient for various sacred offerings, including the grain offering (`{{H4503}}` מִנְחָה, *minchah*), the showbread, and specific priestly portions (e.g., [[Leviticus 2:1]], [[Exodus 29:2]], [[Leviticus 24:5]]). Its purity and quality made it fitting for presentation before God.
In contrast, the New Testament usage of G4585 in [[Revelation 18:13]] presents "fine flour" not as an item of sacred devotion but as a symbol of worldly abundance and commercialism. It is grouped with other luxury goods like cinnamon, frankincense, and precious metals, emphasizing its role in the opulent lifestyle of "Babylon." This stark difference in context—from sacred offering to commercial commodity—is crucial for understanding its theological implications in Revelation. Other related concepts include wealth (`{{G4149}}` πλοῦτος, *ploutos*), luxury (`{{G4439}}` τρυφή, *tryphē*), and trade (`{{G1713}}` ἐμπορία, *emporia*), all of which characterize the condemned city.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of G4585 (σεμίδαλις) in [[Revelation 18:13]] carries profound theological weight. As an item of "fine flour" listed among the vast riches of "Babylon the Great," it symbolizes the material opulence and excessive luxury that characterize a world system alienated from God. Its inclusion highlights the city's economic power and its deep entanglement with earthly goods and pleasures.
The theological significance lies in the divine judgment pronounced upon this system. The lament over the loss of these commodities, including fine flour, signifies the end of an era dominated by materialism, self-indulgence, and exploitation. Unlike the sacred use of fine flour in the Old Testament, where it represented devotion and sustenance from God, here it represents a *reliance* on worldly provisions and an *idolatry* of material wealth. The downfall of Babylon, and the cessation of trade in such items, underscores God's ultimate sovereignty over all earthly systems and His judgment against those who prioritize transient material gain over spiritual truth and righteousness. It serves as a stark reminder of the impermanence of worldly riches and the ultimate futility of a life built on them.
### Summary
G4585 (σεμίδαλις, *semídalis*) refers to "fine wheaten flour," denoting a high-quality, refined product. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Revelation 18:13]] places it within an extensive list of luxury commodities associated with "Babylon the Great." In this context, it functions as a symbol of the city's vast material wealth, commercial power, and indulgence in earthly pleasures. Theological significance arises from its contrast with the Old Testament's sacred use of fine flour; in Revelation, it represents the materialism and economic entanglement of a world system facing divine judgment. Its inclusion in the lament over Babylon's fall underscores the fleeting nature of worldly riches and the ultimate condemnation of a life devoted to them.
TRV