### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **gynaikeîos**, represented by `{{G1134}}`, is a specific term for that which is **feminine** or pertaining to a **wife**. It is derived from the word for woman, γυνή. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its single usage highly significant for understanding its application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G1134}}` is in [[1 Peter 3:7]], where it is translated as "**wife**." The verse commands husbands to dwell with them "according to knowledge," specifically by "giving honour unto the **wife**." This instruction is framed within a unique description of the wife as "the weaker vessel" and as being "heirs together of the grace of life." The context links the proper treatment of the wife directly to the effectiveness of the husband's prayers, which can be "hindered" otherwise.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[1 Peter 3:7]] clarify the meaning of `{{G1134}}`:
* `{{G435}}` **anḗr** (a man; husband): This is the direct counterpart to `{{G1134}}` in the verse. As a term for **husband**, it establishes the specific marital relationship being addressed [[1 Peter 3:7]].
* `{{G4632}}` **skeûos** (a vessel, implement, equipment or apparatus): This word is used figuratively to describe the wife as a **vessel**. This imagery is also used elsewhere to describe believers as "earthen **vessels**" [[2 Corinthians 4:7]] or a "chosen **vessel**" [[Acts 9:15]].
* `{{G772}}` **asthenḗs** (strengthless; weak): This term modifies "vessel" to describe the wife as **weaker**. It signifies a state of being without strength, a concept also used to describe the human condition in the flesh [[Matthew 26:41]] and our state before Christ's salvation [[Romans 5:6]].
* `{{G4789}}` **synklēronómos** (a co-heir): This crucial term defines the husband and wife as **heirs together**. It denotes a shared, equal inheritance, emphasizing spiritual partnership in the "grace of life" [[1 Peter 3:7]] and a shared status as "joint-heirs with Christ" [[Romans 8:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1134}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context.
* **Honor Within Marriage:** The instruction to give **honour** `{{G5092}}` to the wife is not merely a social courtesy but a theological command. It recognizes her value and position within the marital and spiritual covenant.
* **Spiritual Partnership:** Describing the husband and wife as "heirs together" `{{G4789}}` of the **grace** `{{G5485}}` of **life** `{{G2222}}` establishes their equal standing before God in salvation. This spiritual unity is the foundation for their relationship.
* **Knowledge-Based Relationship:** The command for husbands to dwell with their wives "according to **knowledge**" `{{G1108}}` implies a relationship built on understanding, insight, and thoughtful consideration, rather than ignorance or domination.
* **Marital Harmony and Prayer:** The verse explicitly connects the health of the marital relationship to the effectiveness of one's **prayers** `{{G4335}}`. Dishonoring the wife is shown to be a direct hindrance to the husband's communion with God [[1 Peter 3:7]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G1134}}` is one of the rarest words in the New Testament, its solitary use provides a profound and concise theology of marriage. It is used to anchor a specific command for a husband to give honor to his wife, framing the relationship in terms of mutual spiritual inheritance and understanding. The passage illustrates that the marital bond is directly intertwined with one's spiritual life and effectiveness in prayer.
TRV