Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Apollyon is a figure mentioned in the New Testament of the Bible, specifically in the book of Revelation. The name "Apollyon" is derived from the Greek word "Apollyon" (Ἀπολλύων), which means "Destroyer." This figure is often associated with destruction and is considered a powerful and malevolent being. Biblical Reference: Apollyon is mentioned in Revelation 9:11, which states: "They have as king over them the angel of the abyss. His name in Hebrew is Abaddon, and in Greek he has the name Apollyon" . This verse identifies Apollyon as the king of the locusts that emerge from the abyss during the sounding of the fifth trumpet, a period of judgment and tribulation. Role and Symbolism: Apollyon is depicted as the angel of the abyss, a realm often associated with chaos and evil. The abyss is described as a bottomless pit, and Apollyon, as its ruler, commands the locusts that torment those who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads. The locusts are symbolic of divine judgment, and their king, Apollyon, represents the destructive power unleashed upon the earth during the end times. Hebrew and Greek Context: The name "Abaddon" in Hebrew also means "destruction" or "place of destruction," further emphasizing the destructive nature of Apollyon. In Jewish tradition, Abaddon is sometimes personified as an angel of death or destruction, aligning with the New Testament depiction of Apollyon. Theological Interpretations: From a theological perspective, Apollyon is often viewed as a representation of Satan or a high-ranking demon under Satan's command. His role as the destroyer aligns with the broader biblical theme of spiritual warfare, where forces of evil seek to oppose God's purposes and bring about chaos and destruction. Historical and Cultural Context: In the cultural context of the early Christian church, the imagery of Apollyon would have resonated with believers familiar with apocalyptic literature and the concept of spiritual warfare. The name "Apollyon" may also have been a deliberate contrast to the Greek god Apollo, who was associated with prophecy and healing, highlighting the stark difference between divine truth and the destructive deception of evil. Conclusion: Apollyon serves as a powerful symbol of destruction and judgment in the book of Revelation. His role as the angel of the abyss underscores the severity of the end-times tribulations and the ultimate triumph of God's justice over evil. Concordance Apol'lyon (1 Occurrence)Revelation 9:11 Thesaurus Apol'lyon (1 Occurrence)Apol'lyon. Apollyon, Apol'lyon. Apologized . Multi-Version Concordance Apol'lyon (1 Occurrence). Revelation 9:11 and they have over ... /a/apol'lyon.htm - 6k Apollyon (1 Occurrence) Apologized (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |