### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hékastos**, represented by `{{G1538}}`, defines what is true of **each** or **every** individual. It appears 83 times across 78 unique verses. The term functions to shift focus from the collective to the personal, emphasizing that certain actions, responsibilities, and consequences apply to individuals one by one.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1538}}` is frequently used to underscore personal accountability before God. Scripture states that God "will render to **every man** according to his deeds" [[Romans 2:6]], a principle repeated in the context of final judgment where **every one** will receive what is due for things done in the body [[2 Corinthians 5:10]]. This individual accountability extends to the rewards given by Christ, who will "reward **every man** according to his works" [[Matthew 16:27]]. The call to salvation is also personal, as Peter urged the crowd to "Repent, and be baptized **every one** of you" [[Acts 2:38]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concept of individual versus collective identity:
* `{{G3956}}` **pâs** (all, any, every, the whole): This term refers to the totality of a group. Its use alongside `{{G1538}}` clarifies that a universal truth applies to each individual within the whole, as when **all** the churches learn that Christ gives to **every one** according to their works [[Revelation 2:23]].
* `{{G2398}}` **ídios** (pertaining to self, i.e. one's own; by implication, private or separate): This word emphasizes personal ownership or distinctiveness. It is often paired with `{{G1538}}` to underscore individual responsibility, stating that "**every man** shall receive his **own** reward according to his **own** labour" [[1 Corinthians 3:8]].
* `{{G240}}` **allḗlōn** (one another): This term describes reciprocal action within a community. It contrasts with the individual focus of `{{G1538}}`, as seen when believers are instructed to speak truth **every man** with his neighbor because they are members **one of another** [[Ephesians 4:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1538}}` lies in its focus on the individual's relationship with God and the community.
* **Personal Accountability:** The most prominent theme is that judgment is not collective but strictly individual. **Every man's** work will be tested by fire [[1 Corinthians 3:13]], and **every one** of us shall give account of himself to God [[Romans 14:12]]. This removes any possibility of hiding in a crowd.
* **Sovereign Distribution of Grace:** God's gifts are distributed personally. Grace is given "unto **every** one of us" [[Ephesians 4:7]], and the Holy Spirit gives gifts "to **every man** severally as he will" [[1 Corinthians 12:11]]. This highlights a personal and purposeful relationship between the Giver and the recipient.
* **Individual Responsibility in Sanctification:** Believers are individually responsible for their spiritual growth and conduct. **Every man** is tempted when he is drawn away by his own lust [[James 1:14]], and **every one** is called to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour [[1 Thessalonians 4:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1538}}` is more than a simple distributive adjective. It is a crucial theological term that reframes corporate realities in personal terms. It affirms that while salvation and community are for all, the experience of judgment, the reception of grace, the call to holiness, and the reward for one's life are matters that concern **each** person before God. It guarantees that no one is overlooked, whether for accountability or for blessing.
TRV