θαῦμα

a marvel, wonder

Definition

The Greek word θαῦμα (thayma) primarily means 'a marvel' or 'wonder.' It can refer to a concrete object or event that evokes astonishment, such as a miraculous sign. In an abstract sense, it denotes the feeling of amazement or awe itself. In the New Testament, its sole occurrence in Revelation 17:6 uses it concretely to describe John's profound astonishment at the vision of the woman and the beast, highlighting the shocking and extraordinary nature of the apocalyptic revelation.

Biblical Usage

Θαῦμα is used only once in the New Testament, in Revelation 17:6. Here, the apostle John states, 'I was greatly astonished' (ἐθαύμασα θαῦμα μέγα), using the cognate verb and noun together for emphasis. This underscores the word's association with intense, overwhelming wonder at a divine vision within an apocalyptic context. Its rarity suggests it was reserved for describing the most extraordinary revelations.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek verb θαυμάζω (thaumazō, G2296), meaning 'to wonder' or 'to marvel.' The noun θαῦμα itself is the root form, indicating the object or state of wonder. It is related to the concept of something that causes awe or astonishment, a meaning consistent from classical Greek into the Koine period of the New Testament.

Semantic Range

Though used only once, θαῦμα is theologically significant in Revelation as it marks the prophet's response to divine revelation. This 'great wonder' is not mere curiosity but a state of awe induced by encountering God's mysterious plans in judgment and redemption. Understanding this term enriches reading by emphasizing that true prophetic insight often begins with holy astonishment at God's inscrutable works, as seen in apocalyptic literature.

In the Greco-Roman world, 'wonder' (thauma) was often associated with extraordinary events, omens, or divine interventions, similar to modern amazement at miracles. However, in a Jewish and Christian apocalyptic context like Revelation, this wonder is specifically tied to the unveiling of God's sovereign plan, which includes both terrifying judgment and glorious salvation, differing from mere secular astonishment.

τέρας (teras, G5059) — a wonder or portent, often paired with 'signs' (σημεῖα) for miraculous events; θαυμάζω (thaumazō, G2296) — the verb 'to marvel' or 'wonder,' expressing the action; ἐκπλήσσω (ekplēssō, G1605) — to be astonished or amazed, often with a sense of being overwhelmed.

Word Details

Scripture References