### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **basanismós**, represented by `{{G929}}`, means **torment**. Derived from a verb meaning to torture, it appears **6 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible, with all occurrences found in the book of Revelation. This term denotes a severe and specific type of suffering, often in the context of divine judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G929}}` is exclusively found in apocalyptic visions of judgment. In [[Revelation 9:5]], the pain inflicted by symbolic locusts is described as a **torment** like that of a scorpion's sting. The word appears twice in this verse to emphasize the nature of the affliction. The eternal consequence for worshipping the beast is described as a **torment** whose smoke ascends forever, with those afflicted having no rest [[Revelation 14:11]]. The term is also used three times to describe the fate of Babylon, whose punishment of **torment** and sorrow is directly proportional to her self-glorification [[Revelation 18:7]]. This **torment** is so dreadful that onlookers, the merchants and kings, stand far off in **fear** of it ([[Revelation 18:10]], 15).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the scope and context of `{{G929}}`:
* `{{G928}}` **basanízō** (to torture): This is the root verb from which **basanismós** is derived. It describes the action of tormenting, as when the two prophets **tormented** the dwellers of the earth [[Revelation 11:10]] or when demonic spirits feared being **tormented** by Jesus before the appointed time [[Matthew 8:29]].
* `{{G5401}}` **phóbos** (fear, terror): This is the emotional response to the sight of the judgment associated with **basanismós**. Merchants stand at a distance out of **fear** of Babylon's torment [[Revelation 18:10]].
* `{{G3997}}` **pénthos** (grief, sorrow): This word is explicitly paired with **torment** as a component of Babylon's judgment, indicating a state of profound emotional anguish alongside physical or spiritual pain [[Revelation 18:7]].
* `{{G372}}` **anápausis** (rest): This term is used in direct contrast to **torment**. Those who experience the **torment** of `{{G929}}` are described as having no **rest** day or night, highlighting the relentless nature of the suffering [[Revelation 14:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G929}}` is centered on the concept of divine judgment.
* **A Consequence of Pride and Sin:** The word is used as a direct response to rebellion and arrogance. Babylon receives **torment** and sorrow in direct measure to how she glorified herself and lived deliciously [[Revelation 18:7]].
* **A Manifestation of Divine Justice:** **Torment** is presented as a component of God's righteous judgment against evil. It is the fate of those who worship the beast [[Revelation 14:11]] and the punishment for the great city Babylon [[Revelation 18:10]].
* **An Intense and Feared Experience:** The suffering described is not passive but an active **torment** that evokes **fear** in all who witness it [[Revelation 18:15]]. Its severity is likened to a scorpion's sting, a vivid illustration of its painful reality [[Revelation 9:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G929}}` is a powerful and specific term for **torment** within the New Testament. Confined to the book of Revelation, it is not a general word for hardship but describes the severe, conscious suffering that constitutes divine judgment upon unrepentant sin and rebellion. It is defined by what it is—an affliction as painful as a scorpion's sting—and by what it is not—a state with any possibility of **rest**.
TRV