from (an Indian tribe from whom silk was procured; hence the name of the silk-worm); Seric, i.e. silken (neuter as noun, a silky fabric):--silk.
Transliteration:sērikós
Pronunciation:say-ree-kos'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word G4596 (sērikós) is an adjective derived from "Seres," the ancient name for a people or region in the Far East, widely understood to refer to China, from whom silk was procured. The base definition indicates "Seric," meaning "of the Seres," or more broadly, "silken." When used as a neuter noun, as it is in its sole biblical occurrence, it refers to "silk" or "silken fabric." Its semantic range thus encompasses the material itself, emphasizing its exotic origin, high value, and luxurious quality, indicative of a rare and highly prized commodity in the ancient world.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term G4596 (sērikós) appears only once in the New Testament:
* [[Revelation 18:12]]: "The merchandise of gold, and silver, and precious stones, and of pearls, and fine linen, and purple, and silk, and scarlet, and all thyine wood, and all manner vessels of ivory, and all manner vessels of most precious wood, and of brass, and iron, and marble."
This verse is part of the lamentation over the destruction of "Babylon the Great," described as a wealthy and powerful commercial entity. The list enumerates the vast array of luxurious and valuable goods that constituted Babylon's extensive trade and opulence. Silk is positioned among other highly prized commodities such as gold, silver, precious stones, pearls, fine linen (`{{G1040}}` bussos), purple (`{{G4209}}` porphyra), and scarlet (`{{G2847}}` kokkinos). Its inclusion underscores the extreme extravagance and global reach of Babylon's commercial empire. The context highlights that these material possessions, while valuable in themselves, become symbols of the worldly system's pride, self-sufficiency, and ultimate spiritual bankruptcy, leading to its divine judgment and catastrophic downfall. The material itself is not condemned, but its accumulation as a hallmark of excessive worldly indulgence and idolatry is part of the indictment against Babylon.
### Related Words & Concepts
The appearance of G4596 (sērikós) in [[Revelation 18:12]] places it in direct relation to other terms denoting luxury and wealth:
* **Fine Fabrics:** It is consistently listed alongside other high-status textiles such as fine linen (`{{G1040}}`), purple (`{{G4209}}`), and scarlet (`{{G2847}}`). These materials were historically associated with royalty, priesthood, and extreme wealth.
* **Precious Materials:** Its juxtaposition with gold, silver, precious stones, pearls, ivory, and exotic woods emphasizes its status as a highly valuable and sought-after commodity.
* **Commerce and Trade:** The word inherently points to extensive trade routes and a globalized economy, as silk was imported from distant lands. This highlights the vast commercial network of "Babylon."
* **Worldly Riches vs. Spiritual Values:** In the broader context of Revelation, the material wealth symbolized by "silk" and other goods stands in stark contrast to the spiritual riches and heavenly treasures emphasized elsewhere in Scripture (e.g., [[Matthew 6:19-21]], [[1 Timothy 2:9-10]]). The focus on such earthly opulence is implicitly criticized as a distraction from eternal realities.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of G4596 (sērikós) in the apocalyptic vision of Revelation carries profound theological weight. It serves as a potent symbol of the transient, yet deeply seductive, nature of worldly wealth and luxury. "Babylon the Great" is depicted not merely as a political entity but as a global economic system characterized by an insatiable desire for the finest and most exotic goods, including silk. This accumulation of material splendor, while impressive to human eyes, ultimately signifies a system that has placed its trust in earthly possessions rather than in God.
The lament over the loss of silk and other precious commodities by the merchants of the earth ([[Revelation 18:11, 15-17]]) underscores the devastating finality of God's judgment on a system built on materialism and self-aggrandizement. The sudden disappearance of such highly valued goods highlights the ephemerality of all earthly treasures when confronted with divine wrath. Theologically, sērikós contributes to the overall message that true and lasting riches are found not in material possessions but in faithfulness to God and participation in His eternal kingdom. It serves as a powerful warning against covetousness and the dangers of allowing the pursuit of worldly prosperity to overshadow spiritual devotion.
### Summary
The Greek word G4596 (sērikós), meaning "silken" or "silk," is a rare but significant term in the New Testament, appearing exclusively in [[Revelation 18:12]]. Derived from the ancient name for the people/region from whom silk originated, it denotes a highly valued, exotic, and luxurious fabric. In its sole biblical occurrence, sērikós is listed among a vast array of precious goods that characterize the opulent trade and material wealth of "Babylon the Great." Its inclusion serves as a powerful symbol of the excessive worldly indulgence and global commercial reach that define the condemned system. Theologically, the presence of silk in this list underscores the transient nature of earthly riches and the ultimate judgment awaiting those who prioritize material accumulation over spiritual righteousness. It stands as a stark reminder of the contrast between the fleeting splendor of worldly empires and the enduring glory of God's eternal kingdom.
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