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G1812 · Greek · New Testament
ἑξακόσιοι
hexakosioi
Numeral Adjective
Six hundred

Definition

The Greek numeral hexakosioi means six hundred. It appears in Revelation 13:18 as part of the famous number of the beast: 'six hundred sixty-six' (hexakosioi hexekonta hex).

Usage & Theological Significance

The number 666 in Revelation 13:18 has generated centuries of theological debate. John calls for 'wisdom' in calculating it — it is the 'number of a man,' likely a numerical cipher (gematria) for a specific figure (Nero Caesar is the most historically supported candidate). Theologically, 666 is the number that falls short of perfection. Seven is the number of completion in Hebrew thought (the seventh day, seven churches); six is incomplete, one short. Three sixes — triple failure, triple incompletion — is the number of a power that claims divine authority but is fundamentally and irredeemably human and fallen. The contrast with God's perfect number underscores the beast's ultimate inadequacy. Every earthly power that demands ultimate allegiance is, in some sense, '666' — impressive but falling short of the divine.

Key Bible Verses

Revelation 13:18 This calls for wisdom. Let the person who has insight calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man. That number is 666.
1 Kings 10:14 The weight of the gold that Solomon received yearly was 666 talents.
Ezra 2:13 The descendants of Adonikam — 666.
Revelation 14:1 Then I looked, and there before me was the Lamb, standing on Mount Zion, and with him 144,000 who had his name and his Father's name written on their foreheads.
Revelation 17:9 This calls for a mind with wisdom. The seven heads are seven hills on which the woman sits.

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