### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Apollýōn**, represented by `{{G623}}`, is defined as a **destroyer**. As an active participle of ἀπόλλυμι, it denotes a being actively engaged in destruction, with the base definition identifying this figure as Satan. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, marking a singular but significant appearance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G623}}` is found in the apocalyptic vision of Revelation. In this passage, an army emerging from the bottomless pit is described as having a **king** `{{G935}}` ruling over them. This ruler is explicitly identified as "the **angel** `{{G32}}` of the bottomless pit" [[Revelation 9:11]]. The verse uniquely provides his **name** `{{G3686}}` in two languages: in the Hebrew tongue `{{G1447}}`, he is called Abaddon `{{G3}}`, while in the Greek tongue `{{G1673}}`, he is named **Apollyon**.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context clarify the identity and role of **Apollyon**:
* `{{G3}}` **Abaddṓn** (a destroying angel): This is the Hebrew name given for the same entity in the same verse [[Revelation 9:11]]. It directly links **Apollyon** to its Hebrew counterpart, reinforcing the core meaning of destruction.
* `{{G935}}` **basileús** (a sovereign): **Apollyon** is not merely a force of destruction but is described as a **king** with sovereignty over the plague emerging from the pit.
* `{{G32}}` **ángelos** (a messenger; especially an "angel"): The text identifies this destructive king as an **angel**, indicating a spiritual being with a specific mission or authority.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G623}}` is concentrated in its single appearance, establishing a key antagonist.
* **Dual-Named Authority:** By providing the **name** `{{G3686}}` in both Hebrew as Abaddon `{{G3}}` and Greek as **Apollyon**, the text establishes this figure's identity across cultural and linguistic lines, emphasizing its universal significance as "the destroyer" [[Revelation 9:11]].
* **Sovereign Destroyer:** The figure is presented as both a **king** `{{G935}}` and an **angel** `{{G32}}`, combining concepts of royal authority and spiritual power. This positions **Apollyon** not as a random force, but as a leader with command over a destructive host.
* **Embodiment of Destruction:** The name itself, meaning **destroyer**, encapsulates the character and purpose of this angel-king, who brings ruin from the bottomless pit as described in the vision.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G623}}` **Apollyon** is a precisely defined term for a powerful spiritual entity. Though appearing only once, its context in [[Revelation 9:11]] portrays it as a sovereign ruler, an angel of the abyss, and the embodiment of destruction. The name serves as the Greek counterpart to the Hebrew Abaddon, solidifying the identity of this destructive king within the biblical narrative.
TRV