### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **stratópedon**, represented by `{{G4760}}`, is defined as a camping-ground or, by implication, a body of troops or an **army**. This term is highly specific in its biblical usage, appearing only **1 time** in a single verse. Its singular occurrence marks a moment of significant prophetic warning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G4760}}` is found in [[Luke 21:20]], where it functions as a crucial sign of impending judgment. In this verse, the presence of **armies** is the specific, observable event that should signal to believers that the **desolation** `{{G2050}}` of **Jerusalem** `{{G2419}}` is near. The term is not used in a general military sense but as a definitive marker for the fulfillment of prophecy.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words from its single context in [[Luke 21:20]] help clarify its meaning and importance:
* `{{G2944}}` **kyklóō** (to encircle, i.e. surround): This word describes the action taken by the **armies** `{{G4760}}`. It vividly portrays the act of being surrounded, which is the catalyst for the warning [[Luke 21:20]].
* `{{G2050}}` **erḗmōsis** (despoliation:--desolation): This term signifies the direct consequence of the armies' arrival. The sight of the **armies** `{{G4760}}` is inextricably linked to the certainty of coming **desolation** [[Luke 21:20]], a concept also mentioned in [[Matthew 24:15]].
* `{{G1448}}` **engízō** (to make near, i.e. (reflexively) approach): This word emphasizes the imminence of the desolation once the armies appear. The warning is not about a distant possibility but an event that is at hand [[Luke 21:20]]. It is elsewhere used to call people to **draw nigh** to God [[James 4:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4760}}` is concentrated entirely in its role as a prophetic signpost.
* **Sign of Impending Judgment:** The appearance of **armies** is presented as an unmistakable sign that the time of Jerusalem's **desolation** `{{G2050}}` has **nigh** `{{G1448}}`. It serves as a physical trigger for a spiritual realization [[Luke 21:20]].
* **A Call for Discernment:** The verse commands believers to **see** `{{G1492}}` the armies and **know** `{{G1097}}` what it means. This transforms a military event into a test of spiritual awareness and understanding of prophecy.
* **Fulfillment of Prophecy:** The surrounding of **Jerusalem** `{{G2419}}` by **armies** `{{G4760}}` is not a random act of war but a prophesied event, marking a specific point in a divine timeline leading to desolation.
### Summary
In summary, while **stratópedon** `{{G4760}}` is one of the rarest terms in the New Testament, its single use in [[Luke 21:20]] gives it profound significance. It functions exclusively as a prophetic indicator, linking the physical sight of an **army** to the imminent spiritual and physical **desolation** of Jerusalem. The word stands as a powerful example of how a tangible, earthly event can serve as a clear sign of a divinely appointed outcome.
TRV