The Greek word Babylṓn, represented by G897, is of Hebrew origin and refers to Babylon, the capitol of Chaldæa. It appears 12 times across 11 unique verses. The term is used both literally to denote the historical city and figuratively as a powerful symbol of tyranny and rebellion against God.
In scripture, G897 appears in two primary contexts. Historically, it marks a pivotal point in Israel's narrative, the "carrying away into Babylon" Matthew 1:17, which is a key generational marker in the genealogy of Jesus Christ Matthew 1:11-12. Figuratively, particularly in Revelation, Babylon represents a great, corrupt, and powerful world system. It is called "Babylon the great" Revelation 18:2, a "mighty city" Revelation 18:10 that made all nations drink the wine of its spiritual corruption Revelation 14:8. This symbolic city is ultimately destined for divine judgment and a complete fall.
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which Babylon is mentioned:
- G3350 metoikesía (expatriation): This word for being carried away is directly tied to the historical event of the exile to Babylon, structuring the genealogy of Jesus Matthew 1:17.
- G4172 pólis (city): This term is frequently used to describe Babylon in its figurative sense as a center of power and influence, as in "that great city" Revelation 14:8 and "that mighty city" Revelation 18:10.
- G4204 pórnē (a strumpet; figuratively, an idolater): This term is fundamental to the symbolic identity of Babylon, which is named "THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS" Revelation 17:5, signifying its role as the source of spiritual unfaithfulness.
The theological weight of G897 is significant, representing a major theme of worldly opposition to God.
- Historical Exile and Lineage: The "carrying away into Babylon" serves as a crucial historical marker in the lineage of Christ, dividing the generations from David to the Messiah Matthew 1:17. It represents a period of judgment and chastisement for Israel.
- Archetype of Worldly Rebellion: In Revelation, Babylon becomes the ultimate symbol of a godless world system. It is given the title "MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH" Revelation 17:5, embodying spiritual adultery and impurity.
- Object of Divine Judgment: The fall of Babylon is a central theme of divine judgment in the end times. God remembers Babylon to give it "the cup of the wine of the fierceness of his wrath" Revelation 16:19. Its destruction is so absolute that it becomes "the habitation of devils" Revelation 18:2 and is thrown down with violence like a great millstone cast into the sea, to be "found no more at all" Revelation 18:21.
In summary, G897 carries a dual meaning throughout the New Testament. It is both a literal, historical place tied to the exile of Israel and the genealogy of Jesus Matthew 1:17 and a profound, figurative symbol for the pinnacle of worldly pride, corruption, and idolatry. In its figurative sense, Babylon stands as the great adversary of God's people, destined for spectacular and final judgment.
TRV