### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **tḗkō**, represented by `{{G5080}}`, is a primary verb meaning to liquefy or **melt**. This specific term is rare, appearing just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the biblical text, but its single use carries significant theological weight regarding eschatology.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G5080}}` is in [[2 Peter 3:12]], which describes the "day of God" `{{G2316}}`. In this context of cosmic judgment, the verse states that while the heavens `{{G3772}}` are on fire `{{G4448}}` and shall be dissolved `{{G3089}}`, the very **elements** `{{G4747}}` themselves will **melt** with fervent heat `{{G2741}}`. This powerful imagery portrays a complete and fundamental unmaking of the physical creation as part of God's final judgment, an event believers are described as looking for `{{G4328}}` and hasting `{{G4692}}` unto.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the surrounding text help clarify the dramatic nature of this event:
* `{{G3089}}` **lýō** (dissolve): This verb, meaning to "loosen" or destroy, is used in parallel to describe how the heavens will be dissolved [[2 Peter 3:12]]. It is also used to describe the "melting" of the elements in a similar passage [[2 Peter 3:10]].
* `{{G4448}}` **pyróō** (being on fire): This word describes the condition of the heavens in the day of God, meaning to be ignited or to glow [[2 Peter 3:12]]. It can also refer to being tried by fire, as with refined gold [[Revelation 3:18]].
* `{{G4747}}` **stoicheîon** (elements): These are the fundamental, initial constituents of the world that are subject to melting. The term can also refer to the basic "principles" or "rudiments" of worldly philosophy or religion ([[Colossians 2:8]], [[Galatians 4:3]]).
* `{{G2741}}` **kausóō** (fervent heat): This term, meaning to set on fire, describes the state in which the elements will melt [[2 Peter 3:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological importance of `{{G5080}}` is centered on the final judgment and the renewal of creation.
* **Cosmic Dissolution:** The melting of the **elements** `{{G4747}}` signifies not just destruction, but a complete dissolution of the existing created order, returning its foundational components to a liquefied state.
* **Purifying Judgment:** The event is characterized by fire and intense heat, with the heavens "being on fire" `{{G4448}}` and the elements melting with "fervent heat" `{{G2741}}`, underscoring the purifying power and intensity of God's judgment on that day.
* **Eager Expectation:** The context of [[2 Peter 3:12]] presents this climactic event as something believers "look for" `{{G4328}}` and await eagerly. This posture is rooted in the promise of new heavens and a new earth that follows this dissolution [[2 Peter 3:13]].
### Summary
In summary, **tḗkō** `{{G5080}}` provides a vivid and impactful description of the end of the current age. Though used only once, its depiction of the very **elements** liquefying under divine heat forms a cornerstone of the biblical portrayal of the day of God. It highlights the finality of God's judgment and the transformative process that will precede the promised new creation.
TRV