### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **boulḗ**, represented by `{{G1012}}`, refers to **volition**, **advice**, or **purpose**. It appears 12 times in 12 unique verses in the Bible. The term is used to describe a considered plan or intention, originating from either God or human beings.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{G1012}}` frequently denotes God's sovereign and unchangeable plan. The crucifixion was not a random event but occurred by the "determinate **counsel** and foreknowledge of God" [[Acts 2:23]]. Paul states that he did not shun declaring "all the **counsel** of God" [[Acts 20:27]]. This divine counsel is presented as immutable, with God confirming it by an oath to show its unchangeability [[Hebrews 6:17]]. In contrast, the term also describes human plans, such as the soldiers' **counsel** to kill the prisoners [[Acts 27:42]] or the **counsel** of the Jewish leaders to which Joseph of Arimathaea had not consented [[Luke 23:51]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G1012}}` by exploring volition, purpose, and action:
* `{{G1014}}` **boúlomai** (to "will," i.e. (reflexively) be willing): This is the root verb from which **boulḗ** is derived, indicating the act of willing or being disposed to do something. It is used to describe God **willing** to show the immutability of His counsel [[Hebrews 6:17]].
* `{{G2307}}` **thélēma** (a determination... choice... purpose, decree... volition): This word often appears alongside **boulḗ** to describe the determined will of God. Believers are predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things after the counsel of His own **will** [[Ephesians 1:11]].
* `{{G2041}}` **érgon** (an act:--deed, doing, labour, work): This term for an action or deed is sometimes contrasted with **boulḗ**. Gamaliel suggests that if a counsel or **work** is of men, it will fail, distinguishing the plan from the resulting action [[Acts 5:38]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1012}}` is significant, primarily in establishing the nature of God's sovereignty versus human intention.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The word underscores that God's plan is purposeful, predetermined, and absolute. His counsel is "determinate" [[Acts 2:23]] and works in concert with His "foreknowledge" and "will" to accomplish His purposes [[Ephesians 1:11]].
* **Human Counsel and Rejection:** In contrast, human counsel is fallible and can stand in opposition to God's will. The Pharisees and lawyers "rejected the **counsel** of God against themselves" [[Luke 7:30]], demonstrating that divine plans can be refused by man, to their own detriment.
* **Final Judgment and Revelation:** The term points toward an ultimate accountability, where hidden intentions will be judged. At the Lord's coming, He will "make manifest the **counsels** of the hearts," revealing the true motives behind every action [[1 Corinthians 4:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1012}}` is a crucial term that distinguishes between the perfect, immutable plans of God and the often flawed, temporary plans of humanity. It functions as more than simple advice; it signifies a determined purpose. The use of **boulḗ** throughout scripture illustrates the contrast between God's sovereign will, which undergirds all of history, and the counsels of men, which are ultimately subject to His judgment.
TRV