Divine Mystery: χαλκολίβανον (Strong’s G5474: chalkolibanon) Reveals Heaven’s Splendor

Strong’s G5474: A compound word combining bronze and incense, referring to a brilliant metal-like substance mentioned only in Revelation, possibly describing a luminous copper-gold alloy or frankincense-colored metal associated with the Messiah’s appearance.

U- Unveiling the Word

χαλκολίβανον represents one of the most enigmatic terms in biblical Greek, appearing exclusively in the book of Revelation. This compound word combines χαλκός (bronze/copper) with λίβανος (frankincense), creating a unique descriptor for the radiant appearance of the glorified Messiah. Its precise meaning has intrigued scholars for centuries, with interpretations ranging from fine-burnished bronze to a special copper alloy with a golden hue. The early church understood this term as representing divine splendor and otherworldly brilliance, symbolizing the Messiah’s heavenly nature. Today, this word continues to captivate believers as it portrays the transcendent glory of the risen Lord.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: χαλκολίβανον, chalkolibanon, /khalkol-ib’-an-on/
• Detailed pronunciation: KHAL-koh-LIB-ah-non
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• χαλκός (chalkos) – bronze/copper
• λίβανος (libanos) – frankincense
• -ον (neuter singular ending)

D – Defining Meanings

• Burnished bronze or copper with golden hue
• Fine brass with incense-like brilliance
• Precious metal-like substance with supernatural qualities

For compound words:
χαλκός contributes the metallic base meaning, while λίβανος adds the concept of brilliant color or incense-like purity

Translation Options:

• Fine burnished bronze – captures the metallic brilliance
• Gleaming copper-gold – emphasizes the unique color
• Radiant brass – reflects the supernatural luminosity

E – Exploring Similar Words

• χαλκός (chalkos) /khal-kos’/ – common bronze or copper See G5475
• λίβανος (libanos) /lib’-an-os/ – frankincense See G3030
• χρυσός (chrysos) /khroo-sos’/ – gold See G5557

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Noun Features:

• Case: Nominative/Accusative
• Number: Singular
• Gender: Neuter
• Declension: Second

The word would appear as:

• Nominative: χαλκολίβανον
• Genitive: χαλκολιβάνου
• Dative: χαλκολιβάνῳ
• Accusative: χαλκολίβανον

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

The mysterious nature of χαλκολίβανον has generated significant scholarly discussion. BDAG suggests it refers to a metallic substance of exceptional brilliance, while Thayer’s emphasizes its connection to Lebanese copper mines known for producing high-quality ore. LSJ notes its uniqueness to biblical literature, particularly its apocalyptic context. Vine’s connects it to the ancient practice of mixing metals to achieve specific visual effects. Strong’s emphasizes the compound nature, suggesting a metal with the color of frankincense. Moulton and Milligan note the absence of secular usage, highlighting its specialized theological significance in describing the Messiah’s appearance.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First Appearance:
Revelation 1:15 “His feet were like fine brass [χαλκολίβανον], as if refined in a furnace, and His voice as the sound of many waters.”

Additional References:
Revelation 2:18

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

χαλκολίβανον stands as a unique linguistic creation in Scripture, specifically crafted to convey the supernatural brilliance of the glorified Messiah. Its compound structure combines earthly elements to describe heavenly reality, pointing to the dual nature of Jesus – both human and divine. This remarkable word teaches us that human language sometimes falls short in describing divine glory, requiring new expressions to capture heavenly realities. It proclaims the good news that our King Jesus transcends earthly categories, appearing in glory that defies normal description.

D – Did You Know?

• χαλκολίβανον is one of the few words in the New Testament that appears exclusively in Revelation
• The term may reflect ancient metalworking techniques from Lebanon
• It influenced early Christian art depicting the glorified Messiah

Strong’s G5474: A compound word combining bronze and incense, referring to a brilliant metal-like substance mentioned only in Revelation, possibly describing a luminous copper-gold alloy or frankincense-colored metal associated with the Messiah’s appearance.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: revelation, metals, glory, messiah, apocalyptic, divine appearance, compound words, biblical hapax, theophany, symbolism​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​