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λιπαρός (liparos)

liparos

rich

G3045 · Greek · New Testament · 1 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The adjective liparos describes something that is oily or fatty in a literal sense, but in Scripture it carries a metaphorical weight of richness and luxury. Derived from the word for fat or grease, it paints a picture of abundance and sensory indulgence. In the New Testament, this term appears only once, in Revelation 18:14, where it modifies "delicacies" to depict the lavish lifestyle of Babylon.

This usage highlights a stark contrast between material excess and spiritual poverty. The text lists these rich foods alongside other symbols of wealth, showing how they vanish when judgment arrives. By focusing on the physical pleasure of sumptuous living, the word underscores the temporary nature of earthly comfort compared to eternal realities.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word liparos paints a vivid picture of sensory richness, evoking the texture of oil and the indulgence of fatty foods. In Revelation 18:14, it describes the dainties that once satisfied Babylon’s desires. This single usage reminds us that earthly luxuries are fragile. What feels permanent in our comfort often vanishes quickly when circumstances change.

For your faith, this word offers a gentle perspective on material security. It invites you to examine what truly sustains your soul. When we place our hope in fleeting pleasures, we risk losing them without warning. But the things that anchor us in Christ remain steady through every season of life.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • sumptuous things1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • λιπαρὰ1×

Key Verses

  • Revelation of John 18:14
    The fruits which your soul lusted after have been lost to you. All things that were dainty and sumptuous have perished from you, and you will find them no more at all.

    This verse uses the word to describe perishable luxuries, highlighting how material abundance disappears when judgment arrives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Greek word liparos mean?

It is an adjective meaning rich, oily, or fatty. In Scripture, it carries a metaphorical weight of abundance and sensory indulgence, often describing luxurious food or lifestyle.

Where does this word appear in the Bible?

It appears only once in the New Testament, in Revelation 18:14. There, it modifies 'delicacies' to depict the lavish lifestyle of Babylon before its fall.

How is liparos different from other words for rich?

While many Greek words describe wealth or generosity, liparos specifically evokes the physical texture of oil and fat. It emphasizes the sensory pleasure and material excess of a lifestyle rather than just financial status.

What is the spiritual significance of this word?

Its single usage underscores the temporary nature of earthly comfort. By listing these rich foods alongside symbols of wealth, the text highlights how quickly material abundance can vanish compared to eternal realities.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Revelation of John 1 verse
Revelation of John 18:14

The fruits which your soul lusted after have been lost to you. All things that were dainty and sumptuous have perished…