### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term G1739, *endómēsis* (ἐνδόμησις), is derived from a compound of the preposition ἐν (en), meaning "in" or "within," and a derivative of the base of δῆμος (dēmos), which in this context relates to δόμος (domos), meaning "house" or "building." Thus, *endómēsis* fundamentally denotes "a housing in," "an in-building," or "an internal structure." It emphasizes the inherent, built-in quality or substance of a construction rather than merely its superficial appearance. The word points to the material composition and the structural integrity that is intrinsic to a edifice. It is a rare term in the New Testament, appearing only once.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole occurrence of *endómēsis* in the New Testament is found in the book of Revelation:
* **[[Revelation 21:18]]**: "And the building (endómēsis) of the wall of it was of jasper: and the city was pure gold, like unto clear glass."
In this verse, *endómēsis* is used to describe the foundational structure or intrinsic material of the wall of the New Jerusalem. The text specifies that the "building" or "in-building" of the wall was jasper. This is not merely a decorative veneer but speaks to the very substance and composition of the wall itself. The use of *endómēsis* here underscores the preciousness and divine craftsmanship of the eternal city. The wall's intrinsic material is not common stone but glorious jasper, reflecting the purity, light, and enduring nature of God's dwelling place. The word conveys a sense of solidity and inherent value, emphasizing that the wall is not just built *of* jasper, but its very internal makeup *is* jasper.
### Related Words & Concepts
While *endómēsis* is unique in its specific nuance, it relates to several broader concepts and terms concerning construction and dwelling in the biblical corpus:
* οἰκοδομή (oikodomē, `{{G3619}}`): This is a much more common term, meaning "building," "edifice," or "edification." It can refer to the act of building or the structure itself, and is frequently used metaphorically for spiritual growth or the building up of the church (e.g., [[Ephesians 4:12]], [[1 Corinthians 14:26]]). Unlike *endómēsis*, οἰκοδομή does not specifically emphasize the internal substance or inherent material.
* οἶκος (oikos, `{{G3624}}`): A general term for "house," "dwelling," or "household." It refers to the place of habitation or the people within it.
* ναός (naos, `{{G3485}}`): Refers specifically to a "temple" or "sanctuary," particularly the inner shrine where God dwells.
* κτίσις (ktisis, `{{G2937}}`): Encompasses the broader concept of "creation" or "foundation," referring to something established or brought into existence.
*Endómēsis* stands apart by focusing on the *inherent material* and *internal construction* of a significant structure, particularly its substance from within. It highlights the quality of the material that constitutes the building, rather than the act of building or the general concept of a dwelling.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of *endómēsis* in [[Revelation 21:18]] carries profound theological weight. In the description of the New Jerusalem, the emphasis on the *endómēsis* of the wall being jasper speaks volumes about the nature of God's eternal habitation with humanity.
1. **Divine Glory and Purity:** Jasper, throughout Revelation, is associated with God's glory and radiance (e.g., [[Revelation 4:3]]). The fact that the very "in-building" or substance of the wall is jasper signifies that the New Jerusalem is permeated with divine glory and purity. Its structure is not merely adorned with precious stones, but its intrinsic makeup is glorious and pure.
2. **Substance and Permanence:** The term underscores the substantial, enduring, and divinely-crafted nature of the eschatological city. This is not a temporary dwelling but a permanent, solid structure whose very substance reflects its divine origin and purpose. It conveys a sense of inherent strength and unchangeable perfection.
3. **God's Meticulous Design:** The specificity of *endómēsis* suggests God's meticulous design and attention to detail in preparing the eternal dwelling place for His redeemed people. Every aspect, down to the very material composition of its structures, is perfect and glorious, reflecting the character of the Creator.
4. **Intrinsic Value:** The use of *endómēsis* emphasizes the intrinsic, rather than superficial, value of the New Jerusalem. Its glory is not merely external or applied; it is built into its very being.
### Summary
The Greek word *endómēsis* (G1739) signifies an "in-building," "internal structure," or the inherent substance of a construction. Its single appearance in [[Revelation 21:18]] is highly significant, describing the wall of the New Jerusalem as having an *endómēsis* of jasper. This conveys that the very material and intrinsic composition of the wall is divinely glorious, pure, and precious. The term highlights the substantial, enduring, and divinely-crafted nature of God's eternal city, emphasizing that its perfection and glory are not merely superficial but are built into its very essence. *Endómēsis* thus speaks to the meticulous design and intrinsic value of the heavenly dwelling, underscoring its permanence and the radiant presence of God.
TRV