The Hebrew word gophrîyth, represented by H1614, translates to brimstone. Its base definition suggests an inflammable substance like cypress-resin or sulphur. It appears 7 times across 7 unique verses, consistently associated with fiery divine judgment.
In the biblical narrative, H1614 is a key element in accounts of divine retribution. Its most prominent use is in the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, where the LORD rained brimstone and fire from heaven Genesis 19:24. This event becomes a benchmark for total devastation, as a cursed land is later described as brimstone and salt, where nothing grows, "like the overthrow of Sodom" Deuteronomy 29:23. The term is also used to describe the fate of the wicked, upon whose habitation brimstone is scattered Job 18:15 and who receive fire and brimstone as the portion of their cup Psalms 11:6.
Several related words help to frame the context of H1614:
- H784 'êsh (fire): This word for fire is consistently paired with brimstone in scenes of divine punishment, emphasizing the consuming nature of the judgment (Genesis 19:24, Ezekiel 38:22).
- H4305 mâṭar (to rain): This verb, meaning to rain, describes how brimstone is sovereignly sent from above as an act of judgment from the LORD (Genesis 19:24, Psalms 11:6).
- H5467 Sᵉdôm (Sodom): The city whose name is inextricably linked to judgment by brimstone. Its destruction serves as the primary biblical example of this type of punishment (Genesis 19:24, Deuteronomy 29:23).
- H6017 ʻĂmôrâh (Gomorrah): Mentioned alongside Sodom, this city is also a subject of the rain of fire and brimstone, representing a collective target of divine wrath (Genesis 19:24, Deuteronomy 29:23).
The theological weight of H1614 is focused on the execution of divine justice.
- Divine Judgment: Brimstone is an instrument of God's wrath against sin. It is rained upon the wicked Psalms 11:6, on God's enemies Ezekiel 38:22, and upon the cities of Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, and Zeboim Deuteronomy 29:23.
- Permanent Desolation: A land subjected to brimstone is rendered utterly barren and serves as a physical sign of a divine curse. It becomes a place that cannot be sown and where no grass grows Deuteronomy 29:23, and its very dust is turned into brimstone Isaiah 34:9.
- Prophetic Warning: The substance is used in prophetic contexts to warn of future judgment. The breath of the LORD is poetically described as a "stream of brimstone" that kindles the fire prepared for the king in Tophet Isaiah 30:33.
In summary, H1614 is a powerful symbol of swift, complete, and fiery divine retribution. While a literal substance, its biblical significance is tied to its role as an agent of God's judgment. From the historical account of Sodom to the prophetic warnings against the wicked, brimstone represents the terrifying and desolate consequences of God's anger against sin.
TRV