### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term *stratopedon* (G4760) is a compound word, derived from *stratia* (G4756), meaning "an army" or "host," and *pedinos*, related to *pedion*, signifying "a plain" or "level ground." Its core meaning therefore points to "a camping ground" or "an encampment," specifically a place where a military force would set up its camp. By clear implication, the word extends its meaning to refer to the "body of troops" or "army" itself that occupies such a ground. Thus, *stratopedon* encapsulates both the physical location of a military force and the military force itself, emphasizing the organized presence of an army.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term *stratopedon* (G4760) appears only once in the New Testament, found in the Gospel of Luke.
* **[[Luke 21:20]]**: "But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies (ὑπὸ στρατοπέδων), then know that its desolation is near."
In this solitary occurrence, the plural form, *stratopedon* (στρατοπέδων), unequivocally refers to multiple military forces. This verse is part of Jesus' Olivet Discourse, a prophetic address concerning the destruction of Jerusalem and the signs of the end times. The context is dire: the presence of these "armies" is presented as the definitive sign that Jerusalem's desolation, historically fulfilled by the Roman siege and destruction in A.D. 70, is imminent. The term here vividly portrays the overwhelming and hostile military presence that would bring about the city's downfall, underscoring the severity and certainty of the coming judgment. It is not merely a "camping ground" but the active, besieging forces themselves.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of *stratopedon* (G4760) is deeply rooted in military terminology, sharing etymological and conceptual links with several other Greek words:
* **`{{G4756}}` *stratia***: "an army, host," which forms part of the compound. This term is notably used for heavenly hosts (e.g., [[Luke 2:13]]), highlighting its broader application to organized bodies.
* **`{{G4757}}` *stratiotes***: "a soldier," directly referring to an individual member of an army.
* **`{{G4754}}` *strateuomai***: "to wage war, serve as a soldier," describing the action of military service.
* **`{{G4171}}` *polemos***: "war, battle," denoting the broader conflict in which armies engage.
* The concept of "siege" (e.g., *perikykloo* `{{G4038}}` "to surround") and "desolation" (*eremosis* `{{G2050}}`) are intrinsically linked to the usage of *stratopedon* in [[Luke 21:20]], as the armies are the instruments of this desolation.
### Theological Significance
In its singular, pivotal appearance in [[Luke 21:20]], *stratopedon* (G4760) carries profound theological weight. It functions as a concrete, observable sign of impending divine judgment and the fulfillment of prophecy. The "armies" surrounding Jerusalem were not merely random historical events but divinely permitted instruments through which God's prophetic word concerning the city's desolation would be accomplished. This highlights God's sovereignty, demonstrating His ability to use even hostile human forces to achieve His purposes and bring about His will. The presence of these armies signals the end of an era for the old covenant order centered in Jerusalem and the ushering in of a new reality in Christ. For believers, the discernment of such signs was crucial, serving as a warning to flee and underscoring the urgency of heeding Jesus' words. The imagery evokes a sense of overwhelming power and inescapable judgment for those who rejected the Messiah, while simultaneously calling believers to trust in God's ultimate control over all earthly powers.
### Summary
*Stratopedon* (G4760) fundamentally means "a camping ground" and, by extension, "an army." Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Luke 21:20]] is highly significant, referring to the "armies" that would surround Jerusalem, serving as the definitive sign of its impending destruction. The term is deeply embedded in military vocabulary, closely related to words such as *stratia* `{{G4756}}` and *stratiotes* `{{G4757}}`. Theologically, *stratopedon* functions as a prophetic indicator of divine judgment and the fulfillment of God's word, powerfully illustrating His ultimate sovereignty over historical events and human powers. It stands as a stark warning and a call to spiritual discernment regarding the signs of God's unfolding plan.
TRV