Dictionary entry

Revellings

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

rev'-el-ingz (komos): The word is found both in the King James Version and in the Revised Version (British and American) in The Wisdom of Solomon 14:23 (the Revised Version (British and American) "revels," orgiastic heathen worship is in point); 2 Macc 6:4;Ga 5:21;1Pe 4:3. InGa 5:21it is classed with fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, etc., as one of the works of the flesh. In1Pe 4:3it is spoken of the Gentiles and is classcd with drunkenness and carousings and such like. InRo 13:13the Revised Version has "revelling" instead of the King James Version "rioting," and in2Pe 2:13, "revel" replaces "riot." Similarly inAm 6:7, "revelry" replaces "banquet." The obvious meaning of the word is excessive and boisterous intemperance and lustful indulgence.

G. H. Gerberding