### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **eidōleîon**, represented by `{{G1493}}`, refers to an **idol's temple** or an image-fane. This specific term is exceptionally rare in scripture, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**. Its significance comes from its very specific context, illustrating a place dedicated to the worship of an idol.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{G1493}}` occurs in a warning from the Apostle Paul. He describes a scenario where a knowledgeable believer is seen eating a meal inside an **idol's temple**. This action, while perhaps done with a clear conscience, risks emboldening a "weak" believer to participate in eating things offered to idols, an act their own conscience might condemn [[1 Corinthians 8:10]]. The term pinpoints the physical location that creates the potential stumbling block.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide crucial context for the single appearance of `{{G1493}}`:
* `{{G1437}}` **eán**: This is a conditional particle meaning **if** or in case that. It sets up the hypothetical scenario in which the idol's temple is mentioned: "**if** any man see thee" [[1 Corinthians 8:10]].
* `{{G1492}}` **eídō**: Meaning to **see** or to know. The entire ethical dilemma is triggered when a weaker brother happens to **see** a more knowledgeable Christian dining in the idol's temple [[1 Corinthians 8:10]].
* `{{G1494}}` **eidōlóthyton**: This term for an **image-sacrifice** is directly linked to `{{G1493}}`. The danger of being in an idol's temple is that it encourages the eating of "those **things which are offered to idols**" [[1 Corinthians 8:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1493}}` is concentrated in its sole appearance, highlighting a conflict between Christian liberty and love for a fellow believer.
* **Stumbling Block:** The primary lesson is that an action, even if permissible for one person, becomes wrong if it causes another to stumble. The presence in the **idol's temple** is the catalyst for this potential sin [[1 Corinthians 8:10]].
* **The Power of Association:** The term underscores that physical locations carry strong associations. Being in an **idol's temple** is not a neutral act in the eyes of an observer, as it links a believer directly to the site of pagan worship.
* **Knowledge vs. Love:** The context of [[1 Corinthians 8:10]] contrasts knowledge with love. A believer may have "knowledge" that an idol is nothing, but love dictates that they should avoid the **idol's temple** so as not to harm the "weak" conscience of another.
### Summary
In summary, while **eidōleîon** `{{G1493}}` is used only once, it serves a vital function. It names the specific, problematic location—the **idol's temple**—at the heart of a profound ethical teaching. Its appearance in [[1 Corinthians 8:10]] provides a concrete setting for the abstract principles of conscience, Christian liberty, and the duty to act in love so as not to cause another believer to stumble.
TRV