Brief Overview of πλήσσω (Strong’s G4141: plēssō)

Strong’s G4141: A verb meaning “to strike, smite, or plague.” In ancient Greek, it described both physical striking and metaphorical impact. In New Testament usage, appearing only in Revelation, it carries apocalyptic significance, describing divine judgment through cosmic disturbances.

U- Unveiling the Word

πλήσσω represents powerful striking or smiting, often with divine implications. In Revelation, it appears in the context of apocalyptic judgment, particularly regarding cosmic events affecting heavenly bodies. Early church fathers used this term when discussing divine judgment and apocalyptic expectations. Today, it reminds us of God’s sovereign power over creation and His ultimate authority in judgment, while pointing to the urgency of gospel proclamation.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πλήσσω, plēssō, /PLACE-so/
• Detailed pronunciation: PLACE-so (emphasis on first syllable)
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• Root: πληγ- (plēg-) meaning “to strike”
• Basic verb form without prefix or suffix
• Related to πληγή (plēgē), “wound, stripe”

D – Defining Meanings

• To strike
• To smite
• To afflict

For compound words: Not a compound word, but serves as root for many compounds

Translation Options:

• To strike – Basic physical meaning
• To smite – Biblical/judgment context
• To afflict – Broader impact meaning

E – Exploring Similar Words

• τύπτω (typtō) /TOOP-to/ – to beat, emphasizes repeated action
  See G5180
• πατάσσω (patassō) /pat-AS-so/ – to strike, often fatally
  See G3960

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Verb Features:

• Tense: Present, Future, Aorist, Perfect
• Voice: Active, Passive
• Mood: Indicative, Subjunctive, Imperative
• Person: First, Second, Third
• Number: Singular, Plural

Examples:
Present: πλήσσω (I strike)
Future: πλήξω (I will strike)
Aorist: ἔπληξα (I struck)
Perfect: πέπληγα (I have struck)

• Cross-references to noun πληγή and related compounds

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its judgment context in Revelation. Thayer’s notes its range of meanings from physical to divine action. LSJ documents extensive classical usage. Vine’s highlights its apocalyptic significance. Strong’s connects it to smiting. LEH provides Septuagint usage in judgment contexts. Moulton and Milligan cite examples from legal documents.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“The fourth angel [blew] his trumpet, and a third of the sun was struck, and a third of the moon, and a third of the stars, so that a third of their light was darkened” Revelation 8:12

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

πλήσσω reminds us of God’s sovereign power in judgment, yet points to Christ who was struck for our salvation. While the word appears in contexts of judgment, it ultimately directs us to the gospel where divine justice and mercy meet in Jesus, who took the striking we deserved.

D – Did You Know?

1. Ancient Greek military texts used this term for decisive battle strikes.
2. Early Christian apocalyptic literature frequently employed this word.
3. The term influenced medical vocabulary for sudden conditions.

Strong’s G4141: A verb denoting powerful striking or smiting, particularly in contexts of divine judgment. In New Testament usage, it appears exclusively in Revelation’s apocalyptic visions, emphasizing God’s sovereign power over creation.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: judgment, apocalyptic, Revelation, divine power, cosmic events, judgment day, biblical Greek, divine sovereignty, plagues, tribulation, heavenly signs, divine intervention​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​