ταρταρόω

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word tartaróō, represented by G5020, means to incarcerate in eternal torment. It appears only 1 times in 1 unique verses in the entire Bible, making it a highly specific term. Derived from a word indicating "the deepest abyss of Hades," its singular usage denotes the act to "cast down to hell."

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The sole application of G5020 is found in the context of divine judgment against celestial beings. In 2 Peter 2:4, the scripture states that God did not spare the angels who sinned, but instead cast them down to hell. This action is presented as part of a divine sentence, where the angels were delivered into "chains of darkness" to be held for a future judgment.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words from its only biblical context help clarify its meaning:

• G264 hamartánō (to err, especially (morally) to sin): This is the action that provoked the judgment described by G5020, as seen in "the angels that sinned" 2 Peter 2:4.
• G32 ángelos (a messenger; especially an "angel"): This identifies the specific beings who were the subjects of this divine punishment 2 Peter 2:4.
• G4577 seirá (a chain (as binding or drawing)): This describes the method of confinement for those cast down, who were delivered into chains of darkness 2 Peter 2:4.
• G2217 zóphos (gloom (as shrouding like a cloud)): This word, translated as darkness, characterizes the nature of the confinement awaiting the final judgment 2 Peter 2:4.
• G5083 tēréō (to guard (from loss or injury...); by implication, to detain (in custody...); by extension, to withhold): This action shows the purpose of the confinement is "to be reserved unto judgment" 2 Peter 2:4.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of G5020 is significant despite its single use, highlighting specific aspects of divine justice.

• Judgment on Angels: The word is used exclusively in reference to God's judgment upon angels G32 that sinned G264, demonstrating that even heavenly beings are not exempt from accountability.
• A Place of Holding: To be cast down with G5020 is to be incarcerated and bound in "chains of darkness" (G4577, G2217). This emphasizes a state of active, secure confinement rather than simple destruction.
• Reserved for Final Judgment: The act of being cast down is not the final punishment itself, but a prelude to it. The sinful angels are "reserved" G5083 for a future judgment G2920, as stated in 2 Peter 2:4.

Summary

In summary, G5020 is a precise and potent term for a specific divine act. Used only once in scripture, it describes God casting sinful angels into a place of confinement, a dark abyss where they are held in chains. Its appearance in 2 Peter 2:4 serves as a powerful example of divine judgment, illustrating that accountability extends to all creation and that a final, decisive judgment G2920 awaits those who sin.