The Greek word phármakos, represented by G5333, is defined as a sorcerer. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. The term is noted as being the same as G5332.
In its single scriptural appearance, G5333 is used in a list of those who are kept "without" the holy city. The passage states that "without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie" Revelation 22:15. This context places the practice of sorcery alongside other serious offenses that result in exclusion from God's presence.
Several related words appear alongside phármakos in its biblical context, defining a group of individuals who are outside the city:
- G2965 kýōn (dog): A term used figuratively for those who are considered impure, appearing in the list in Revelation 22:15.
- G4205 pórnos (fornicator, whoremonger): This word describes a debauchee or sexually immoral person and is listed among those who will not inherit the kingdom of God Revelation 22:15.
- G5406 phoneús (murderer): This term refers to an intentional homicide and is consistently placed in lists of grave sins Revelation 22:15.
- G1496 eidōlolátrēs (idolater): Defined as an image-worshipper, this term is used for those who serve something other than God and is associated with other serious offenses Revelation 22:15.
The theological weight of G5333 is understood by its placement in lists of sins that result in final judgment.
- Exclusion from the Holy City: The primary use of the term places sorcerers among those who are "without" the gates, alongside murderers, idolaters, and whoremongers Revelation 22:15.
- Association with Final Judgment: The related word for sorcerers G5332 is included in a similar list of sinners whose part is "in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death" Revelation 21:8.
- Grave Offense: By being consistently grouped with sins such as murder, sexual immorality, and idolatry, sorcery is portrayed as a practice fundamentally opposed to God.
In summary, while phármakos G5333 is a rare term in scripture, its single appearance is significant. It clearly identifies a sorcerer as one who partakes in a practice grievous enough to warrant exclusion from the holy city. The word's context in Revelation 22:15 solidifies its meaning, placing it alongside other behaviors that are subject to final judgment.
TRV