### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **phlóx**, represented by `{{G5395}}`, means **a blaze** or **flame**. Derived from a primary term meaning to "flash" or "flame," it appears **7 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible. It is consistently used to describe intense, visible manifestations of divine power, judgment, or presence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5395}}` appears in several distinct contexts. It is used to describe the torment of the afterlife, as when the rich man in Hades cries out for relief because he is tormented in a **flame** [[Luke 16:24]]. It also marks a divine appearance, such as the angel of the Lord appearing in a **flame** of fire in a bush [[Acts 7:30]]. In the book of Revelation, the glorified Christ is repeatedly described as having eyes like a **flame** of fire, symbolizing His penetrating and authoritative gaze ([[Revelation 1:14]], [[Revelation 2:18]], [[Revelation 19:12]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the use of `{{G5395}}`:
* `{{G4442}}` **pŷr** (fire): This word is almost always used with **phlóx** to create the phrase "flame of **fire**" ([[2 Thessalonians 1:8]], [[Hebrews 1:7]]). While **pŷr** refers to **fire** in general, **phlóx** specifies its active, blazing quality.
* `{{G3788}}` **ophthalmós** (the eye): This word is directly connected to the divine nature of Christ in passages where His **eyes** are described as a **flame** of fire, signifying His all-seeing and judging character ([[Revelation 1:14]], [[Revelation 19:12]]).
* `{{G2711}}` **katapsýchō** (to cool): This term stands in direct opposition to the effects of the **flame**. The rich man, tormented in the **flame**, begs for water to **cool** his tongue, highlighting the intense heat associated with it [[Luke 16:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G5395}}` is tied to its depiction of divine power and judgment.
* **Divine Judgment:** The term is explicitly linked to retribution. God takes vengeance in "flaming fire" on those who do not obey the gospel [[2 Thessalonians 1:8]], and the **flame** is a source of torment for the unrighteous dead [[Luke 16:24]].
* **Holy Presence:** A **flame** can signify a theophany, or a visible manifestation of the divine. This is seen when an angel of the Lord appears in a **flame** [[Acts 7:30]] and when God’s angelic ministers are themselves described as a **flame** of fire [[Hebrews 1:7]].
* **Christ's Authority:** The repeated imagery of Christ's eyes as a **flame** of fire conveys His ultimate authority to judge with perfect, piercing vision [[Revelation 2:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5395}}` is more than just a word for a blaze. It is a potent biblical symbol for the formidable power of God. Whether representing the anguish of divine judgment, the awesome presence of a holy messenger, or the omniscient gaze of Jesus Christ, the **flame** consistently illustrates a power that is both glorious and fearsome.
TRV