### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **dḗpote**, represented by `{{G1221}}`, is a particle of generalization defined as "indeed, at any time" or simply **whatsoever**. This word is exceptionally rare in scripture, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**. Its sole function is to broaden the scope of a statement, indicating a lack of restriction or limitation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical appearance of `{{G1221}}` is in the account of the pool of Bethesda. The verse explains that after an **angel** `{{G32}}` went down at a **certain season** `{{G2540}}` to trouble the water, the first person to enter the **pool** `{{G2861}}` was healed of **whatsoever** disease they had [[John 5:4]]. The word emphasizes that the type of sickness was irrelevant; the healing was available for any and every ailment present.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{G1221}}` is clarified by several related words from the passage:
* `{{G3553}}` **nósēma** (disease): This word defines the "ailment" that is being healed. `{{G1221}}` is used to generalize this term, showing that the power at work was effective against any kind of **disease** [[John 5:4]].
* `{{G5199}}` **hygiḗs** (whole): This term describes the result of the healing: being made "healthy" or **whole**. The promise was to be made completely **whole** from whatsoever ailment one suffered [[John 5:14]].
* `{{G1096}}` **gínomai** (was made): This verb, meaning to "become" or "be made," highlights the transformation. A person afflicted with any disease **was made** whole [[John 5:4]], and the same word is used elsewhere to describe how all things **become** new [[2 Corinthians 5:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1221}}` is tied to its specific context of miraculous healing.
* **Comprehensive Power:** By using a term of generalization, the text emphasizes that the divine power at work was not selective. It was capable of healing **whatsoever** `{{G1221}}` **disease** `{{G3553}}` a person had, demonstrating its comprehensive nature [[John 5:4]].
* **Universal Need:** The word implicitly acknowledges the vast array of human suffering gathered at the pool. The promise of healing was generalized to meet any possible need, without exception for the type of affliction.
* **Singular Condition for a General Grace:** The unlimited scope of the healing ("whatsoever") is paired with a very specific condition: being the **first** `{{G4413}}` to enter the water. This illustrates that a broad and powerful grace can be accessed through a singular, decisive action [[John 5:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1221}}` is a minor but meaningful word in the New Testament. Its single usage serves to define the scope of a miraculous event, showing that the healing offered at the pool of Bethesda was not limited by the type of **disease** `{{G3553}}`. It illustrates how a simple particle of generalization can underscore the boundless and comprehensive nature of divine power, available to anyone who could meet the specific condition for receiving it.
TRV