apparently from (to hiss, i.e. hist or hush); silence:--silence. Compare σιωπάω.
Transliteration:sigḗ
Pronunciation:see-gay'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
**G4602 (σιγή)**, transliterated as *sigḗ*, fundamentally denotes "silence" or the "absence of sound." Its etymological root suggests a connection to a sound of "hushing" or "stilling," implying a deliberate cessation or suppression of noise. This word refers to a state of complete quietness, an absolute lack of speech or audible activity. It can encompass not only the mere absence of noise but also a commanded or imposed quiet, indicating a profound and often intentional stillness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
**G4602 (σιγή)** appears only once in the New Testament, yet its singular occurrence carries immense weight and theological significance:
* **[[Revelation 8:1]]**: "When he opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour."
* This is arguably the most dramatic and profound instance of silence in all of Scripture. It is not an ordinary quiet but a preternatural, awe-inspiring stillness that precedes the unleashing of the seven trumpet judgments.
* The specified duration, "about half an hour," emphasizes that this is a deliberate, measured period, not an accidental or fleeting moment. This precise timing underscores the gravity and anticipation of what is to follow.
* The context of Revelation, a book filled with the loud praises of heavenly beings, the cries of martyrs, and the cacophony of divine judgments, makes this sudden, absolute silence particularly striking. It serves as a stark contrast, highlighting the unique solemnity of God's impending actions.
* This silence is pregnant with meaning, acting as a sacred pause before the storm. It indicates divine preparation, a moment of universal reverence, and the overwhelming nature of God's majesty and righteous judgment, causing even the heavenly hosts to fall silent in anticipation.
### Related Words & Concepts
**G4602 (σιγή)** is often compared to **G4602 (σιωπάω)** (*siōpaō*), as indicated in its base definition. While both relate to silence, they differ in their grammatical function and nuance:
* **G4602 (σιγή)**: A noun, referring to the *state* or *condition* of silence. It denotes the absence of sound itself.
* **G4602 (σιωπάω)**: A verb, meaning "to be silent," "to keep silence," or "to be speechless." It often implies an *active choice* or *command* to be silent, or a state of being rendered speechless. Examples include Jesus silencing the wind and waves in [[Mark 4:39]], or demons being commanded to be silent in [[Mark 1:25]].
Other related concepts that often accompany or are signified by silence include:
* **Awe and Reverence:** Silence can be a natural human (and even heavenly) response to overwhelming power, majesty, or holiness, as powerfully demonstrated in [[Revelation 8:1]].
* **Anticipation and Expectation:** The silence can heighten the sense of what is to come, creating a dramatic tension.
* **Rest and Contemplation:** In other contexts, silence can be conducive to deep thought, meditation, or spiritual repose.
* **Judgment and Solemnity:** As seen in Revelation, silence can precede moments of profound divine action, particularly judgment, underscoring its gravity.
### Theological Significance
The singular, yet profoundly impactful, occurrence of **G4602 (σιγή)** in [[Revelation 8:1]] imbues it with immense theological weight, revealing several key truths:
* **Divine Sovereignty and Awe:** The silence in heaven is not an absence of God or a void of activity, but rather an active manifestation of His supreme presence and absolute control. It underscores the unparalleled sovereignty of God as He prepares to execute His righteous judgments. This moment evokes a sense of holy dread, deep reverence, and profound humility before the Creator of all things.
* **Moment of Profound Anticipation:** This silence serves as a dramatic and sacred pause, heightening the anticipation for the unfolding of the trumpet judgments. It signifies a moment when all of creation, both earthly and heavenly, holds its breath, acknowledging the unparalleled gravity and cosmic significance of God's impending actions. It is a moment where the very fabric of existence seems to stand still in expectation.
* **Contrast to Heavenly Activity:** In a book replete with the ceaseless worship, loud praises, and constant activity of the heavenly host, this sudden, profound silence is a stark and deliberate contrast. It emphasizes the unique and unparalleled significance of the events about to unfold, suggesting a moment so weighty that even the ceaseless praise of heaven is hushed.
* **Preparation for Righteous Judgment:** The silence acts as a divine prelude, a sacred preparation for the unfolding of God's righteous wrath. It signifies that God's judgments are not arbitrary or impulsive, but deliberate, measured, and purposeful. It is a moment for the entire universe to acknowledge the solemnity, justice, and inevitability of what is about to occur.
### Summary
**G4602 (σιγή)**, meaning "silence," refers to the profound absence of sound or speech. Its singular New Testament occurrence in [[Revelation 8:1]] is exceptionally significant, depicting a dramatic and awe-inspiring silence in heaven for "about half an hour" before the seven trumpet judgments. This is not mere quietude but a divinely orchestrated pause, pregnant with immense meaning and anticipation. Theologically, this silence underscores God's absolute sovereignty, the solemnity and gravity of His impending judgments, and evokes a sense of profound reverence and holy dread. While related to **G4602 (σιωπάω)**, which signifies the *act* of being silent, **G4602 (σιγή)** denotes the *state* of silence itself, particularly one of immense theological import and dramatic effect. It serves as a powerful testament to the gravity of divine action and the universal recognition of God's majestic authority.
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