### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **endómēsis**, represented by `{{G1739}}`, refers to a **structure** or **building**. It is derived from words meaning "a housing in" or residence. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** throughout the entirety of Scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single occurrence of `{{G1739}}` is found in the description of the New Jerusalem. In [[Revelation 21:18]], it specifies the material composition of the city's defenses, stating that "the **building** of the wall of it was of jasper." The term is used to detail the physical structure of the wall `{{G5038}}`, which is made of jasper `{{G2393}}`, while the city `{{G4172}}` itself is described as pure `{{G2513}}` gold `{{G5553}}`, like clear glass `{{G5194}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the vision of the New Jerusalem:
* `{{G5038}}` **teîchos** (a wall (as formative of a house)): This word is directly associated with `{{G1739}}` in its only appearance. The wall of the city is described as having twelve foundations, bearing the names of the apostles [[Revelation 21:14]].
* `{{G2393}}` **íaspis** ("jasper", a gem): This is the precious stone that makes up the **building** `{{G1739}}` of the wall. Jasper is also used to describe the appearance of God on His throne and the light of the city itself ([[Revelation 4:3]], [[Revelation 21:11]]).
* `{{G4172}}` **pólis** (a town (properly, with walls, of greater or less size)): This refers to the New Jerusalem, the holy **city** whose structure is being described. It is identified as the "city of the living God" [[Hebrews 12:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1739}}` is tied entirely to its singular, descriptive use in Revelation:
* **Divine Construction:** The word describes the **building** of the wall of the New Jerusalem, a structure of divine origin. The material, **jasper** `{{G2393}}`, is elsewhere linked to the appearance of God, imbuing the **structure** with a sense of divine glory and presence [[Revelation 4:3]].
* **Precious Security:** By describing the **building** of the wall `{{G5038}}` as being made of a precious gem, the term contributes to the imagery of the city's immense value and perfect security. The entire city is presented as a place of unparalleled beauty and worth [[Revelation 21:18]].
* **Eternal Residence:** As a term for a "housing in" or **structure**, its use here emphasizes the permanence and solidity of God's final dwelling place. This **building** is part of an eternal and heavenly city where God's people will dwell [[Hebrews 12:22]].
### Summary
In summary, while **endómēsis** `{{G1739}}` is a minor word in terms of frequency, its sole appearance is profoundly significant. It functions as a specific architectural term to describe the material nature of the wall of the New Jerusalem in [[Revelation 21:18]]. Through this single use, the word elevates from a simple definition of "building" to a symbol of the divine, precious, and eternal nature of God's kingdom.
TRV