τιμιότης

preciousness, costliness

Definition

The noun τιμιότης (timiotēs) denotes the quality of being precious, costly, or of great value. It refers to something possessing high worth, often in a material sense, but implying inherent excellence. In its sole New Testament occurrence, Revelation 18:19, it describes the 'costliness' or 'preciousness' of the lost cargo of Babylon, specifically referencing the immense material wealth of the fallen city. The word captures the idea of extreme financial and symbolic value that is utterly destroyed in God's judgment.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Revelation 18:19. It appears in the lament of the merchants over the fall of Babylon, who cry out because 'in one hour such great wealth has been laid waste!' The term 'timiotēs' is used to summarize the 'costliness' of the city's lost cargo—its gold, silver, jewels, and fine goods. Its usage is entirely within an apocalyptic context describing the judgment of a corrupt commercial system.

Etymology

Derived from the adjective τίμιος (timios, G5093), meaning 'precious, valuable, honored.' The suffix -της (-tēs) forms an abstract noun indicating the state or quality of being. Thus, τιμιότης literally means 'preciousness' or 'the quality of being valuable.' It is closely related to the verb τιμάω (timaō, G5091), 'to honor,' sharing a root concept of high worth or esteem.

Semantic Range

While used only once, this word is theologically significant in highlighting the transient nature of worldly wealth and human glory in contrast to God's eternal kingdom. In Revelation 18:19, the 'preciousness' of Babylon's goods is shown to be utterly destructible and subject to divine judgment. This underscores the biblical theme that true, lasting value is found in God and spiritual realities, not in material accumulation. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading of Revelation by emphasizing the profound loss and worthlessness of earthly treasures in the face of God's ultimate authority.

In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of 'timiotēs' would have been readily understood in economic and social terms, referring to luxury goods, rare commodities, and items of great exchange value. The cargo list in Revelation 18:12-13 reflects the actual expensive imports of the Roman Empire. The word's use in a lament for lost merchandise would resonate with an audience familiar with maritime trade and the risks to valuable cargo, making the judgment scene vividly concrete.

τίμιος (timios, G5093) — The adjective meaning 'precious' or 'valuable,' describing the object itself rather than the abstract quality. πολυτελής (polytelēs, G4185) — Emphasizes being very costly or expensive, often with a nuance of lavishness or extravagance.

Word Details

Scripture References