Apocalyptic Signs: τρίχινος (Strong’s G5155: trichinos) Reveals Divine Judgment

Strong’s G5155: An adjective meaning “made of hair,” trichinos appears in Revelation describing sackcloth during cosmic judgment. In apocalyptic imagery, it symbolizes mourning and divine judgment, particularly in contexts of cosmic disturbances signaling God’s intervention.

U- Unveiling the Word

The Greek word τρίχινος (trichinos) specifically describes materials made from hair or having a hair-like quality. In the New Testament, it appears uniquely in Revelation’s apocalyptic imagery, describing the sun becoming like sackcloth made of hair during divine judgment. This description draws on ancient traditions where hair cloth symbolized mourning and repentance. The early church fathers often referenced τρίχινος when discussing apocalyptic signs and the need for repentance. Today, this word continues to remind believers of the sobering reality of divine judgment and the appropriate response of humility and repentance.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: τρίχινος, trichinos, TREE-khi-nos
• Detailed pronunciation: τρί (TREE) + χι (khi) + νος (nos)
• Part of Speech: Adjective

Etymology:

• Root: θρίξ (thrix) meaning “hair”
• Suffix: -ινος (-inos) indicating “made of”
• Combined meaning: “made of hair”

D – Defining Meanings

• Primary meaning: “made of hair”
• Hair-like in texture
• Of hairy material
• Like sackcloth

For compound words: Not applicable as τρίχινος is formed by adding a material suffix to a root word

Translation Options:

1. “made of hair” – Most precise meaning
2. “hairy” – General description
3. “hair-cloth” – Specific material reference

E – Exploring Similar Words

σάκκος (sakkos) [SAK-kos] – sackcloth – See G4526
δέρμα (derma) [DER-ma] – skin/hide – See G1192
μέλας (melas) [MEL-as] – black – See G3189

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

• Case: Varies by usage
• Number: Singular/Plural
• Gender: Masculine/Feminine/Neuter
• Declension: Second/First

The adjective changes form based on the noun it modifies:

• Masculine: τρίχινος
• Feminine: τριχίνη
• Neuter: τρίχινον
• Case endings follow regular adjective patterns

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

Major lexicons provide insight into τρίχινος’s significance. BDAG emphasizes its specific reference to hair-cloth materials used in mourning contexts. Thayer’s lexicon traces its formation and cultural significance. LSJ documents its use in classical Greek for various hair-made materials. Vine’s expands on its apocalyptic significance in Revelation. Strong’s confirms its basic meaning while LEH adds valuable context from Septuagint usage. Moulton and Milligan’s papyrological evidence shows its use in describing common materials and garments.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:

“I watched as he opened the sixth seal. There was a great earthquake. The sun turned black like sackcloth made of hair [τρίχινος], the whole moon turned blood red,” Revelation 6:12

Additional References:
This is the only occurrence of τρίχινος in the New Testament.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

The word τρίχινος powerfully illustrates the solemnity of divine judgment through its connection to mourning garments. In Revelation’s apocalyptic imagery, it helps depict the cosmic signs that accompany God’s intervention in history. Yet this sobering image points to the good news that God provides warning signs and calls for repentance before judgment. Through τρίχινος, we see both divine justice and mercy, as the Messiah calls all to repentance before the final day.

D – Did You Know?

1. Hair cloth was commonly used by prophets as symbolic clothing
2. The material was extremely uncomfortable, emphasizing genuine repentance
3. Early Christians saw it as symbolizing the darkness of judgment day

Strong’s G5155: An adjective meaning “made of hair,” trichinos appears in Revelation describing sackcloth during cosmic judgment. In apocalyptic imagery, it symbolizes mourning and divine judgment, particularly in contexts of cosmic disturbances signaling God’s intervention.

Part of speech: Adjective

Tags: hair cloth, sackcloth, judgment, apocalyptic, signs, mourning, biblical Greek, New Testament Greek, Koine Greek, Revelation, repentance, prophecy​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​