The Greek word chálaza, represented by G5464, is defined as hail. It appears 4 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. All its occurrences are found in the book of Revelation, where it is consistently depicted as a destructive element of divine judgment.
In the biblical narrative, G5464 is used to describe cataclysmic events. It is listed as one of the plagues of the first trumpet judgment, where hail and fire mingled with blood are cast upon the earth, burning up a third of the trees and all green grass Revelation 8:7. It also appears as "great hail" in conjunction with lightnings, thunderings, and an earthquake after the temple of God is opened in heaven Revelation 11:19. In its final appearance, a "great hail" with stones the weight of a talent falls from heaven, and the resulting plague is so severe that it causes men to blaspheme God Revelation 16:21.
Several related words appear alongside chálaza, highlighting its context as part of a larger divine display of power:
- G4442 pŷr (fire): This word for fire is described as being "mingled" with hail in the plague that is cast upon the earth Revelation 8:7.
- G1027 brontḗ (thunder): Defined as thunder or thunderings, this event occurs with great hail and an earthquake when the ark is seen in God's temple in heaven Revelation 11:19.
- G4578 seismós (earthquake): Meaning an earthquake or a commotion, this term is used to describe a great shaking of the ground that happens at the same time as the great hail Revelation 11:19.
The theological weight of G5464 is focused on its role as an instrument of divine judgment.
- Divine Plague: The word is explicitly identified as a "plague." The plague of the hail is described as "exceeding great," directly causing men to blaspheme God in response to its severity Revelation 16:21.
- Heavenly Origin: The source of the hail is consistently portrayed as being from heaven, emphasizing its divine nature. It is "cast upon the earth" Revelation 8:7 and falls "out of heaven" Revelation 16:21.
- Cataclysmic Power: The term is always associated with overwhelming force. It is called "great hail" (Revelation 11:19, 16:21) and is grouped with other destructive phenomena like fire, thunder, and earthquakes, underscoring its role in apocalyptic events.
In summary, G5464 is far more than a simple meteorological term. Within scripture, chálaza functions exclusively as a powerful symbol of divine wrath in the book of Revelation. Its use alongside other destructive forces like fire and earthquakes illustrates its significance as a specific and terrifying plague sent from heaven to enact God's judgment on the earth.
TRV