ῥομφαία
rhomphaia
sword
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Greek word ῥομφαία (rhomphaia) is a term that specifically refers to a type of sword. Its definition is straightforward and centered around its connection to warfare and conflict. This instrument of war appears seven times in the Bible, indicating its significance in the contexts in which it is used. The occurrence of ῥομφαία in various situations suggests its importance as a symbol of violence and a means of defense in ancient times. This sword is not merely a tool but also an object of fear and respect, reflecting its impact on the people who witnessed or experienced its use. The relative frequency of ῥομφαία (occurring seven times) may imply a focus on its role in certain events, stories, or passages rather than its everyday depiction in ancient culture. Nonetheless, this limited yet concentrated usage underscores the weight and importance of this particular type of sword in biblical narratives.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
7 total occurrences across the text
Yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul, that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Revelation 1:16He had seven stars in his right hand. Out of his mouth proceeded a sharp two-edged sword. His face was like the sun shining at its brightest.
Revelation 2:12“To the angel of the assembly in Pergamum write: “He who has the sharp two-edged sword says these things:
Revelation 2:16Repent therefore, or else I am coming to you quickly, and I will make war against them with the sword of my mouth.
Revelation 6:8And behold, a pale horse, and the name of he who sat on it was Death. Hades followed with him. Authority over one fourth of the earth, to kill with the sword, with famine, with death, and by the wild animals of the earth was given to him.
Revelation 19:15Out of his mouth proceeds a sharp, double-edged sword, that with it he should strike the nations. He will rule them with an iron rod. He treads the wine press of the fierceness of the wrath of God, the Almighty.
Revelation 19:21The rest were killed with the sword of him who sat on the horse, the sword which came out of his mouth. All the birds were filled with their flesh.