### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb χρυσόω (chrysóō, G5558) is derived directly from the noun χρυσός (chrysós, G5557), meaning "gold." Its most fundamental meaning is "to make golden," "to gild," or "to overlay with gold." This implies the application of gold as a covering or adornment, transforming the appearance of an object by imparting a golden luster. The base definition "to gild, i.e. bespangle with golden ornaments:--deck" accurately captures this sense of embellishment and luxurious adornment, signifying a rich and splendid outward display.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb χρυσόω (chrysóō, G5558) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the book of Revelation:
* [[Revelation 18:16]]: "And saying, Alas, alas, that great city, that was clothed in fine linen, and purple, and scarlet, and decked with gold, and precious stones, and pearls!"
In this singular occurrence, the term is used to describe Babylon the Great, a symbolic representation of a powerful, idolatrous, and worldly system. The city is portrayed as being "decked" or "gilded" with gold, precious stones, and pearls. This lavish description emphasizes Babylon's immense material wealth, its pride, and its earthly splendor. The context is a lament over the city's impending destruction, highlighting the transient and ultimately condemned nature of worldly riches and glory when pursued apart from God. The outward adornment signifies a deceptive facade, masking spiritual emptiness and rebellion against divine truth. The use of χρυσόω here underscores the superficiality and ultimate worthlessness of such material splendor in the face of divine judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of χρυσόω (chrysóō, G5558) is primarily anchored in the concept of "gold" and its associated meanings of wealth, value, and adornment. Key related terms include:
* χρυσός (chrysós, G5557): The root noun, meaning "gold," used extensively throughout the New Testament to refer to the literal metal, often as a symbol of wealth, purity, or divine glory.
* χρυσίον (chrysíon, G5553): A diminutive or general term for "gold" or "a piece of gold," also frequently used in similar contexts.
* χρυσοδακτύλιος (chrysodaktylios, G5554): "Gold-ringed," found in [[James 2:2]] describing a man adorned with gold rings, further emphasizing outward display.
* χρυσοπράσος (chrysoprasos, G5555): "Chrysoprase," a specific type of precious stone, showing the broader category of valuable adornments.
The concept of "gold" in Scripture carries a dual significance. While it can represent purity, divine glory, and true spiritual value (e.g., "gold tried in the fire" in [[Revelation 3:18]], or the golden altar and lampstand in the tabernacle/temple), it also frequently symbolizes earthly wealth, pride, and idolatry, especially when pursued as an ultimate good or source of security. The use of χρυσόω in [[Revelation 18:16]] clearly falls into the latter category, depicting the allure and deceptive nature of worldly opulence.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of χρυσόω (chrysóō, G5558) in [[Revelation 18:16]] holds profound theological significance. It is employed to describe Babylon, a powerful symbol of humanity's rebellion against God, characterized by self-exaltation, economic exploitation, and spiritual apostasy. The city being "decked with gold" signifies its reliance on and glorification of earthly riches and superficial splendor.
Theologically, this highlights:
1. **The Deceptive Nature of Worldly Glory:** The outward show of gold and precious stones serves as a powerful metaphor for the allure of worldly systems that promise satisfaction and security through material means. This "gilding" is ultimately a deceptive facade, concealing an inner spiritual emptiness and corruption.
2. **Contrast with True Riches:** The description of Babylon stands in stark contrast to the true, enduring riches found in Christ, which are often depicted as spiritual "gold tried in the fire" (e.g., [[1 Peter 1:7]], [[Revelation 3:18]]). While Babylon's gold is condemned and perishes, the gold of purified faith and righteousness endures.
3. **Idolatry of Materialism:** To be "decked with gold" implies an excessive focus on and trust in material possessions, effectively making them idols. Babylon's adornment is not merely an aesthetic choice but a theological statement of its misplaced worship and pride.
4. **Divine Judgment on Worldly Systems:** The context of lament over Babylon's fall underscores God's judgment on all systems and powers that elevate themselves and their material wealth above Him. The very "decking" that once symbolized its greatness becomes a part of the reason for its destruction.
### Summary
The Greek verb χρυσόω (chrysóō, G5558) means "to gild" or "to adorn with gold." Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Revelation 18:16]] is highly significant, describing the lavish adornment of Babylon the Great. In this context, "decking with gold" symbolizes the deceptive, transient, and ultimately condemned nature of worldly wealth, pride, and superficial glory when pursued in opposition to God. It serves as a stark contrast to the enduring spiritual riches and purity that are truly valued in God's kingdom, underscoring the biblical warning against idolatrous materialism and the inevitable judgment upon systems that prioritize earthly splendor over divine truth.
TRV