### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **dēmiourgós**, represented by `{{G1217}}`, translates as **maker**. Its base definition is "a worker for the people, i.e. mechanic (spoken of the Creator)". This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular appearance, however, provides a powerful description of God's creative role.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole instance of `{{G1217}}` is found in [[Hebrews 11:10]], which describes the object of faith as "a city which hath foundations, whose builder and **maker** is God." In this context, **dēmiourgós** is paired directly with the word for "builder" to emphasize God's complete and total authorship of this promised city. It highlights that God is not only the designer and craftsman but also the fundamental creator of what is hoped for.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of divine creation and craftsmanship:
* `{{G5079}}` **technítēs**: Defined as "an artisan; figuratively, a founder (Creator):--builder, craftsman." This word is used in immediate conjunction with `{{G1217}}` in [[Hebrews 11:10]] to describe God as both the "**builder** and maker." It also appears in contexts describing human **craftsmen**, such as the silversmiths in [[Acts 19:24]].
* `{{G2316}}` **theós**: Defined as "a deity, especially (with ὁ) the supreme Divinity." This is the most crucial related term, as **God** is explicitly identified as the **maker** (dēmiourgós) in [[Hebrews 11:10]]. This identifies the agent behind the creative act.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1217}}` is significant despite its rarity. It reinforces a specific understanding of God's creative power.
* **Divine Architect:** In its only biblical use, `{{G1217}}` is used to portray God as the ultimate **maker** of a city with foundations, highlighting His role as a purposeful creator of a secure and eternal dwelling [[Hebrews 11:10]].
* **Paired Craftsmanship:** The word appears alongside `{{G5079}}` **technítēs** ("builder"), creating a powerful image of God as both the artisan who skillfully constructs and the ultimate source who makes things into existence.
* **Benevolent Creator:** The word's root meaning, "a worker for the people," implies that God's work as **maker** is done on behalf of His people, crafting a reality for them to inherit through faith.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1217}}` **dēmiourgós** is a concise yet profound term. Though it appears only once, its placement in [[Hebrews 11:10]] provides a key insight into God's character. By identifying God `{{G2316}}` as the **maker** of the city of faith, the word underscores His role as the ultimate, purposeful Creator who designs and builds a firm foundation for the faithful.
TRV