### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **skotízō**, represented by `{{G4654}}`, means to obscure or **darken**, both literally and figuratively. It appears **9 times** across **8 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is used to describe the dimming of physical light as well as the clouding of spiritual and intellectual understanding.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G4654}}` appears in two primary contexts. First, it is used literally to describe the darkening of celestial bodies as a sign of judgment or a momentous event. This is seen when the sun was **darkened** during the crucifixion [[Luke 23:45]] and in prophetic passages where the sun, moon, and stars are **darkened** during the tribulation ([[Matthew 24:29]], [[Mark 13:24]]). Second, it is used figuratively to depict a spiritual or moral condition. For example, because people did not glorify God, their "foolish heart was **darkened**" [[Romans 1:21]], and their understanding was **darkened** due to ignorance and alienation from God [[Ephesians 4:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the meaning of being darkened:
* `{{G2246}}` **hḗlios** (the sun): This is the most common object to be literally **darkened**, often in contexts of eschatological judgment ([[Matthew 24:29]], [[Revelation 9:2]]).
* `{{G4457}}` **pṓrōsis** (blindness, hardness): This word is directly connected to the figurative use of **skotízō**, where a darkened understanding is the result of the "blindness of their heart" [[Ephesians 4:18]].
* `{{G801}}` **asýnetos** (foolish, without understanding): This term describes the state of a heart that becomes **darkened** when people turn away from God's wisdom [[Romans 1:21]].
* `{{G52}}` **ágnoia** (ignorance): This is cited as a reason for having a darkened understanding, highlighting a spiritual state of being separated from the life of God [[Ephesians 4:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4654}}` is significant in its dual application.
* **Cosmic Signs of Judgment:** The literal darkening of the `sun{G2246}` and `moon{G4582}` is a recurring apocalyptic sign, signifying divine intervention and the shaking of the heavens ([[Matthew 24:29]], [[Revelation 8:12]]).
* **Spiritual Consequences of Rejection:** The figurative darkening of the heart and understanding is portrayed as a direct consequence of human rebellion and `ignorance{G52}`. It is not merely a passive state but a result of failing to honor God, leading to a `foolish{G801}` heart [[Romans 1:21]].
* **Impairment of Vision:** The word is used in a prayer of judgment, "Let their eyes be **darkened**, that they may not see" [[Romans 11:10]], indicating that the ability to perceive truth can be divinely impaired as a form of retribution.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4654}}` is a powerful word that conveys the concept of obscurity in both the physical and spiritual realms. It describes dramatic cosmic events that signal God's judgment and, just as importantly, illustrates the internal condition of a heart and mind that is alienated from divine light. Whether describing the sun being extinguished or the understanding being clouded by `blindness{G4457}`, **skotízō** points to a profound loss of light and clarity.
TRV