The Greek word strēniáō, represented by G4763, describes a state of indulgent luxury. Its base definition is to be luxurious, with the King James Version translating it as "live deliciously." It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, exclusively within the book of Revelation to characterize the corrupt state of Babylon.
In its biblical usage, G4763 is directly associated with the pride and sin of the great city, Babylon. It is used to describe a lifestyle that is not only self-indulgent but also defiant of God. In one instance, Babylon's choice to live deliciously is linked to her self-glorification and the proud boast that she will see no sorrow Revelation 18:7. The term also characterizes the relationship between Babylon and the "kings of the earth," who are said to have lived deliciously with her in a partnership of spiritual corruption Revelation 18:9.
Several related Greek words help clarify the context of G4763 and its consequences:
- G1392 doxázō: This word means to render or esteem glorious. It is used to describe how Babylon has "glorified herself, and lived deliciously" Revelation 18:7, linking luxury to pride.
- G4203 porneúō: Meaning to act the harlot or practice idolatry, this term is paired with G4763 to describe the actions of the kings of the earth, who "committed fornication and lived deliciously with her" Revelation 18:9.
- G929 basanismós: Defined as torture, this is the direct consequence of Babylon's luxurious living, as the command is given to give her an equal measure of "torment and sorrow" Revelation 18:7.
- G3997 pénthos: Meaning grief or sorrow, this word stands in stark contrast to the life of luxury, representing the judgment that will replace it Revelation 18:7.
- G2799 klaíō: This term for wailing aloud is used to describe the reaction of the kings who once shared in Babylon's luxury when they witness her judgment Revelation 18:9.
- G2875 kóptō: Meaning to beat the breast in grief, this word is used alongside G2799 to emphasize the deep lament of those who participated in Babylon's sin Revelation 18:9.
The theological weight of G4763 is centered on the divine condemnation of arrogant self-indulgence.
- Pride and Defiance: To "live deliciously" in this context is not merely to be wealthy, but to do so with a proud heart that glorifies itself and denies its vulnerability, as Babylon does when she claims she is "no widow" Revelation 18:7.
- Corrupt Alliances: The term describes a sinful union between worldly powers (the kings of the earth) and a system of spiritual rebellion (Babylon). This luxurious lifestyle is funded by and shared with those who engage in spiritual unfaithfulness Revelation 18:9.
- Cause for Judgment: The life of luxury is presented as a primary reason for God's judgment. The punishment of "torment and sorrow" is directly proportional to the degree to which Babylon "glorified herself, and lived deliciously" Revelation 18:7.
In summary, G4763 is a specific and potent term used in Scripture to denote more than simple comfort. It signifies a defiant, self-glorifying luxury that is intertwined with spiritual corruption and rebellion against God. Its use in Revelation serves as a powerful warning that such prideful indulgence will inevitably lead to divine judgment, sorrow, and torment.
TRV