διπλόω

I double

Definition

The verb διπλόω means 'to double' or 'to repay double.' In its sole New Testament occurrence in Revelation 18:6, it carries the sense of exacting a double measure of punishment as retribution. The concept is one of proportional justice or recompense, where the penalty matches or exceeds the offense committed. This mirrors Old Testament legal principles of restitution found in passages like Exodus 22:4, 7, 9, where repayment for theft could be double. The action is portrayed as a divine judicial act against Babylon for her sins.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Revelation 18:6. It appears in the context of a heavenly voice calling for judgment upon the symbolic system of 'Babylon,' representing corrupt worldly power and opposition to God. The usage is imperative and judicial: 'Repay her double according to her deeds.' The pattern is one of prophetic pronouncement of divine retribution, fitting the apocalyptic genre of Revelation.

Etymology

Derived from the adjective διπλόος (diploos, G1362), meaning 'double' or 'twofold.' It is a verbal form created from this root, literally meaning 'to make double.' Cognates include διπλοῦς (diplous, G1362) meaning 'double' and διπλόω (diploō) itself. The meaning developed straightforwardly from the basic idea of doubling a quantity to the figurative sense of doubling a penalty or repayment.

Semantic Range

This word is significant for understanding the biblical theme of divine justice and retribution. In Revelation 18:6, it underscores the principle that God's judgment is measured and proportionate, even when severe. The call to 'repay double' is not arbitrary cruelty but a poetic, prophetic declaration that the consequences for persistent, arrogant sin (like that of 'Babylon') will be complete and fitting. It enriches reading by highlighting the seriousness with which God views systemic evil and the certainty of his ultimate justice.

In the Greco-Roman and Jewish cultural context, the idea of 'double repayment' was a recognized legal and proverbial concept for restitution or punishment. It appears in the Law (Exodus 22:4, 7, 9) and wisdom literature (e.g., Proverbs 6:31). For John's original audience, the phrase would immediately evoke this framework of just recompense, making the judgment pronouncement against 'Babylon' feel both legally grounded and profoundly severe.

ἀποδίδωμι (apodidōmi, G591) — a more general verb for 'to give back, repay, or render,' often used for rewards or punishments. ἀνταποδίδωμι (antapodidōmi, G467) — to repay in turn, with a stronger sense of requital or recompense, often used for divine vengeance or reward.

Word Details

Scripture References