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G3
Brief Overview of Ἀβαδδών (Strong’s G3: Abaddon)
Ἀβαδδών
Pronounced: ah-bah-dohn
Whether you’re looking for a brief overview or want to learn the ancient language, this study uses the U.N.D.E.R.S.T.A.N.D Framework for both goals.
U – Unveiling the Word
The Greek word Ἀβαδδών (Abaddon) is a significant term found in the New Testament, particularly in Revelation 9:11, where it refers to the angel of the abyss or the “destroyer.” The name has its roots in Hebrew, where “אֲבַדּוֹן” (Abaddon) means “place of destruction” or “the abyss.” In the biblical context, Abaddon represents not only a literal place of destruction but also personifies a force of chaos and death. This duality in meaning enhances the word’s significance, particularly in apocalyptic literature, where it serves as a harbinger of judgment and divine retribution.
N – Necessary Information
Greek Word: Ἀβαδδών (Abaddon) [ah-bah-dohn]
Etymology: The name derives from the Hebrew root “אבד” (avad), meaning “to perish” or “to destroy.” Thus, Abaddon can be understood as “the place of destruction” or the entity associated with destruction.
Part of Speech: Noun, masculine, singular.
The F.O.G Word Choice: Abaddon
D – Defining Meanings
The primary meanings of Ἀβαδδών include:
Place of Destruction: In its Hebrew context, Abaddon refers to a realm of the dead or destruction, often associated with Sheol, the grave, or a pit.
Angel of the Abyss: In Revelation, Abaddon is described as the leader of the locusts released during the fifth trumpet judgment, representing a personification of destruction.
Symbol of Divine Judgment: Abaddon symbolizes divine retribution, reflecting God’s authority over life and death, serving as a reminder of the consequences of sin and rebellion against God.
E – Exploring Similar Words
Ἀπολλύων (Apolluōn) [ah-pol-lue-ohn]: This term, meaning “destroyer,” is used interchangeably with Abaddon in Revelation 9:11, emphasizing the destructive aspect of this figure.
Δαίμων (Daimōn) [die-mohn]: This word refers to a spirit or deity, often carrying a connotation of evil or malevolence, differing from Abaddon’s specific association with destruction and judgment.
Χάος (Chaos) [khah-os]: Meaning “chaos” or “the void,” this word captures a state of disorder, while Abaddon specifically denotes destruction and divine judgment rather than mere disorder.
R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology:
For Nouns:
Case, Number, Gender: Ἀβαδδών is a masculine noun in the nominative singular case.
Declension: It belongs to the third declension class, typical for many Greek proper nouns and names, with variations in endings depending on grammatical context.
Is this all Greek to you? Click here for a beginners guide to reading Biblical Greek.
S – Studying Lexicon Insights:
A synthesis of insights from various Greek lexicons reveals that Ἀβαδδών occupies a unique place in biblical literature, particularly in apocalyptic texts. It embodies themes of destruction and divine authority, linking the Old Testament concept of destruction with New Testament eschatology. Lexicons highlight its role in portraying God’s judgment, illustrating the theological implications of divine retribution against sin. The various interpretations underscore how the name signifies not just a place or entity but a powerful symbol of the ultimate consequences of evil.
This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.
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Revelation 9:11: “They have as king over them the angel of the bottomless pit; his name in Hebrew is Abaddon [Ἀβαδδών], and in Greek he is called Apollyon.”
Job 26:6: “The grave [אֲבַדּוֹן] is naked before him, and destruction has no covering.”
Proverbs 15:11: “Sheol and Abaddon [אֲבַדּוֹן] lie open before the Lord; how much more the hearts of men!”
A– Analyzing Classical Usage:
In classical Greek literature, Ἀβαδδών appears primarily in the context of destruction, both physical and metaphorical.
| Author | Work | Text |
| Hesiod | Theogony: | “And from Chaos came forth Erebus and Night, and from Night came forth the dreadful Abaddon [Ἀβαδδών].” |
| Plutarch | Moralia: | “Those who dwell in the depths of Abaddon [Ἀβαδδών] fear the judgment of the gods.” |
| Aeschylus | Prometheus Bound: | “I shall return to the dark Abaddon [Ἀβαδδών], where no light shines.” |
| Septuagint (LXX) | Job 28:22: | “Destruction [אֲבַדּוֹן] and Death say, ‘We have heard a rumor of it with our ears.’” |
| Septuagint (LXX) | Psalms 88:11: | “Will your lovingkindness be declared in the grave, or your faithfulness in Abaddon [אֲבַדּוֹן]?” |
| Septuagint (LXX) | Proverbs 27:20: | “Hell [אֲבַדּוֹן] and destruction are never full; so the eyes of man are never satisfied.” |
N – Noteworthy Summary
The Greek word Ἀβαδδών encapsulates the notion of destruction in both literal and metaphorical senses, highlighting its role in biblical narratives as a personification of divine judgment. Its roots in Hebrew and its usage in the New Testament connect it to themes of chaos and the afterlife.
D – Did You Know?
1. The name Abaddon is often associated with the bottomless pit or abyss, emphasizing its role as a domain of evil and chaos.
2. In Jewish thought, Abaddon is sometimes equated with Sheol, highlighting its ties to death and the afterlife.
3. The dual identity of Abaddon as both a place and an angel underscores the complexity of destruction in biblical theology.
G3: Ἀβαδδών (Abaddon) signifies “place of destruction,” referring to both a literal abyss and the personification of divine judgment, illustrating themes of chaos and retribution in biblical and classical contexts.
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