### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **gérōn**, represented by `{{G1088}}`, is a specific term for **aged** or **old**. According to its usage statistics, it is a very rare word, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular appearance serves a crucial role in a pivotal dialogue.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G1088}}` is found in the question posed by Nicodemus `{{G3530}}` to Jesus. After being told that a man must be born again, Nicodemus responds from a place of literal, human understanding, asking, "How `{{G4459}}` can `{{G1410}}` a man `{{G444}}` be born `{{G1080}}` when he is **old**?" [[John 3:4]]. The word here emphasizes the physical impossibility of a second birth, as he immediately clarifies by questioning if a man can enter his mother's womb a second time.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from this passage help clarify the context of Nicodemus's confusion:
* `{{G1080}}` **gennáō** (to procreate... be born): This word for birth is used twice in Nicodemus's question, highlighting his focus on a physical, biological process rather than the spiritual one Jesus intends [[John 3:4]].
* `{{G1208}}` **deúteros** (second): This word specifies the sequence, showing Nicodemus is literally contemplating a **second time** entering the womb, which is impossible for someone who is old [[John 3:4]].
* `{{G1410}}` **dýnamai** (to be able or possible): Nicodemus uses this word to question the very possibility of the event. His question is not just about the method, but whether it **can** happen at all for an old man [[John 3:4]].
* `{{G3530}}` **Nikódēmos** (Nicodemus): The identity of the speaker, a ruler of the Jews, underscores the significance of the question, as it comes from a learned person struggling to grasp a spiritual truth [[John 3:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1088}}` comes from its specific role in this conversation.
* **Physical vs. Spiritual Reality:** The word **old** is used to frame the discussion in purely physical terms. It establishes the limitations of human logic and experience when confronted with the divine requirement of spiritual rebirth [[John 3:4]].
* **The Catalyst for Deeper Truth:** By using `{{G1088}}` to state the obvious physical absurdity, Nicodemus's question prompts Jesus to explain the nature of being "born of water and of the Spirit," which is necessary to **enter** `{{G1525}}` the kingdom of God [[John 3:5]].
* **Highlighting Human Impossibility:** The concept of an **old** man being physically reborn is impossible. This serves as a parallel to the truth that spiritual rebirth is also impossible through human effort alone; it requires a divine act.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G1088}}` appears only once, its function is critical. The word **gérōn** encapsulates the human, earthly perspective that cannot comprehend spiritual truths without divine explanation. It is the lynchpin of Nicodemus's confusion, serving as the perfect setup for Jesus's profound teaching on the nature of being born again.
TRV