### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **téssares**, represented by `{{G5064}}`, is a plural number meaning **four**. It appears 42 times across 35 unique verses in the Bible. While it can denote a simple quantity, it is frequently used to establish structure and symbolism, particularly in contexts of cosmic scope and divine order.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5064}}` is used in several key contexts. It is central to the visions in the book of Revelation, most notably describing the **four** beasts that are in the midst of and round about the throne of God ([[Revelation 4:6]], [[Revelation 5:6]]). The number also defines the extent of the earth, as seen with the **four** angels standing on the **four** corners of the earth, holding the **four** winds [[Revelation 7:1]], and Jesus's prophecy of gathering his elect from the **four** winds [[Matthew 24:31]]. Beyond these cosmic descriptions, it appears in literal counts, such as the **four** daughters who did prophesy [[Acts 21:9]] and the sheet let down from heaven by **four** corners in Peter's vision [[Acts 10:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words build upon the numerical value of **four**:
* `{{G1501}}` **eíkosi** (a score:--twenty): This word is frequently used in combination with `{{G5064}}` to form the number twenty-four. This is seen exclusively in Revelation to describe the **four** and twenty elders who sit on seats around the throne and worship God ([[Revelation 4:4]], [[Revelation 5:8]]).
* `{{G5062}}` **tessarákonta** (forty): Defined as the decade of τέσσαρες, this word is combined with `{{G5064}}` to form the significant number of one hundred and **forty** and **four** thousand, representing the redeemed who stand with the Lamb on mount Sion ([[Revelation 14:1]], [[Revelation 14:3]]).
### Theological Significance
The symbolic weight of `{{G5064}}` is significant, especially in apocalyptic literature.
* **Cosmic Totality:** The number **four** is consistently linked to the entirety of the created world. This is established through phrases like the "**four** corners of the earth" [[Revelation 7:1]], the "**four** quarters of the earth" [[Revelation 20:8]], and the "**four** winds" [[Mark 13:27]], signifying a global or universal scope.
* **Heavenly Order:** `{{G5064}}` is foundational to the structure of the heavenly throne room. The **four** beasts are constant participants in celestial worship [[Revelation 19:4]], and there are **four** horns on the golden altar before God [[Revelation 9:13]], suggesting a divinely established pattern.
* **Divine Agency and Judgment:** The number is tied to agents of God's will. **Four** angels are given power to hurt the earth and the sea [[Revelation 7:2]], and another set of **four** angels are loosed from the river Euphrates to execute judgment ([[Revelation 9:14]], [[Revelation 9:15]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5064}}` extends beyond its literal value of **four**. It is a cornerstone of biblical symbolism, particularly in Revelation, where it defines the structure of creation, the order of heaven, and the instruments of divine will. From the **four** parts of Jesus's garments [[John 19:23]] to the **four** living creatures at the center of heavenly worship, the number illustrates how a simple quantity can convey profound truths about the earth and the throne of God.
TRV