The Greek word tétartos, represented by G5067, is an ordinal number meaning fourth. It is derived from the word for four, τέσσαρες. This term appears 10 times across 9 unique verses in the Bible, often used to denote a specific position in a sequence or a division of time.
In Scripture, G5067 is used to mark progression in divine events and visions. In the book of Revelation, it identifies the fourth angel sounding a trumpet Revelation 8:12, the fourth angel pouring out a vial of judgment Revelation 16:8, and the opening of the fourth seal Revelation 6:7. The term also describes the fourth living beast before the throne Revelation 4:7 and the fourth foundation of the New Jerusalem Revelation 21:19. Beyond sequences, it specifies a portion, as power is given over the fourth part of the earth Revelation 6:8, and a particular time, as Jesus walked on the sea during the fourth watch of the night Matthew 14:25.
Several other ordinal numbers provide context for understanding sequential order in Scripture:
- G4413 prōtos (foremost... first): This word establishes the beginning of a sequence, such as the first beast seen in the vision of the throne room Revelation 4:7 or the first foundation of the city wall Revelation 21:19.
- G1208 deúteros (second): This term marks the next step in a series, identifying the second beast Revelation 4:7 and the second death Revelation 20:6.
- G5154 trítos (third): As the direct predecessor to fourth, this word denotes the third element in a series, like the third beast Revelation 4:7 or the "third part" of the sun and moon being struck Revelation 8:12.
- G1766 énnatos (ninth): Like tétartos, this is used to mark a specific time, most notably the ninth hour, when Jesus cried out on the cross Mark 15:34 and when Cornelius prayed before his vision Acts 10:30.
The use of G5067 carries significant thematic weight, illustrating key principles of divine action.
- Orderly Progression: The word is frequently used to mark a specific step in a divine sequence, such as the fourth seal Revelation 6:7 or the fourth angel's action Revelation 16:8, emphasizing that God's judgments and plans unfold in a structured and deliberate manner.
- Appointed Time: By identifying the fourth watch of the night as the moment Jesus came to His disciples on the water Mark 6:48, the term highlights that divine intervention occurs at precise, appointed times.
- Defined Scope: When power is given over "the fourth part of the earth" Revelation 6:8, it shows that divine authority, even in judgment, is specific and measured rather than indiscriminate.
- Integral Component: The term identifies the fourth element in a set, such as the fourth living beast Revelation 4:7 or the fourth foundation, an emerald Revelation 21:19, showing its role as a necessary part of a complete divine pattern.
In summary, G5067 tétartos serves as more than a simple numerical indicator. It is a key structural word used to communicate order, timing, and proportion within the biblical narrative. From marking the progression of apocalyptic judgments in Revelation to identifying the precise moment of a miracle in the Gospels, tétartos consistently underscores the structured, measured, and purposeful nature of God's actions. It reveals how every part of a divine sequence has its specific place and significance.
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