ὅρμημα

a rushing on, impulse

Definition

ὅρμημα (ormēma) refers to a violent, forceful movement, specifically a 'rushing on' or 'violent impulse.' It describes a sudden, powerful surge or impetus, often with destructive intent. In its sole New Testament occurrence, Revelation 18:21, it depicts the overwhelming, catastrophic force with which a great millstone is hurled into the sea, symbolizing the sudden and total destruction of Babylon. The word carries connotations of unstoppable momentum and violent action, emphasizing the decisive and final nature of the event it describes.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in the apocalyptic book of Revelation. It appears in Revelation 18:21, where a mighty angel demonstrates the coming destruction of Babylon by throwing a huge millstone into the sea, saying, 'Thus with violence (ὅρμημα) will the great city Babylon be thrown down, and will be found no more.' Its usage is highly specific to this vivid prophetic symbol of sudden, violent, and irreversible judgment.

Etymology

Derived from the verb ὁρμάω (hormaō), meaning 'to rush,' 'to set in motion,' or 'to urge on.' The noun form ὅρμημα emphasizes the result or product of that rushing action—the violent motion or impulse itself. It is related to other words in the ὁρμ- (horm-) word group, which convey ideas of impetus, eagerness, or a sudden onset.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it intensifies the depiction of divine judgment in Revelation. The choice of ὅρμημα, rather than a more generic term for 'force,' underscores the sudden, overwhelming, and utterly decisive nature of God's final judgment on corrupt systems (symbolized by Babylon). It enriches the reading by highlighting that this judgment is not a gradual decline but a catastrophic, divinely executed event, emphasizing God's power and the finality of His justice against evil.

In the ancient world, the violent hurling of a massive object like a millstone into the sea was a powerful image of complete and irreversible destruction. Millstones were essential, heavy tools for daily life (grinding grain). Their destruction symbolized the utter end of a city's economic life and sustenance. The 'rushing' violence (ὅρμημα) of the act would resonate with audiences familiar with the terrifying force of such an action, making the prophetic symbol vividly concrete.

ὁρμή (hormē, G3730) — a more general term for an impulse, urge, or onset, often internal. βία (bia, G970) — general force or violence, but without the specific connotation of a rushing motion or impetus.

Word Details

Scripture References