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G1661 · Greek · New Testament
ἐλεφάντινος
Elephantinos
Adjective
of ivory, ivory

Definition

The Greek adjective elephantinos means "made of ivory" or "of ivory." It derives from elephas (elephant, ivory). It appears once in the NT: Revelation 18:12, in the lament over fallen Babylon, listing the luxuries no longer traded — including "articles of ivory" (skeuē elephantina).

Usage & Theological Significance

Ivory (elephantinos) in Revelation 18:12 represents the extreme luxury and excess of Babylon — the world system that organizes itself around wealth, comfort, and self-indulgence. The OT already condemned ivory as a mark of decadent wealth: Amos 3:15 warns that "ivory houses" will be destroyed; Amos 6:4 rebukes those who "lie on beds of ivory." In Revelation's lament, the merchants weep because no one buys their ivory anymore. The goods of Babylon are not evil in themselves, but when they become the supreme object of desire, they become idols — and all idols will ultimately be mourned.

Key Bible Verses

Revelation 18:12cargoes of gold, silver, precious stones and pearls; fine linen, purple, silk and scarlet cloth; every sort of citron wood, and articles of every kind made of ivory.
Amos 3:15I will tear down the winter house along with the summer house; the houses adorned with ivory will be destroyed.
Amos 6:4You lie on beds adorned with ivory and lounge on your couches.
1 Kings 10:22Once every three years it returned, carrying gold, silver and ivory.
Matthew 6:19Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy.

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