### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **enoikéō**, represented by `{{G1774}}`, means **to inhabit**, typically in a figurative sense. It appears 7 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible. The word is formed from the components ἐν and οἰκέω, signifying a deep, internal dwelling rather than a mere physical residence. It describes the indwelling of God, His Spirit, His word, and even faith within a believer.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1774}}` is used to illustrate the intimate relationship between God and His people. God himself promises, "I will **dwell** in them" [[2 Corinthians 6:16]], identifying believers as the "temple of the living God." This concept is further specified as the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. In [[Romans 8:11]], the "Spirit that dwelleth in you" is the agent of resurrection life. Paul also encourages believers to let the "word of Christ **dwell** in you richly" [[Colossians 3:16]]. The term can also describe an enduring quality, as seen when Paul mentions the "unfeigned faith" that first **dwelt** in Timothy's grandmother and mother [[2 Timothy 1:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the concept of indwelling:
* `{{G3611}}` **oikéō** (to occupy a house, i.e. reside): As the root word of enoikéō, this term also refers to dwelling. It is used to state that the "Spirit of God **dwell** in you" [[Romans 8:9]], establishing the foundational idea of divine residence.
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (a spirit... the Holy Spirit): This is the divine agent that performs the action of dwelling. It is the Holy **Ghost** "which **dwelleth** in us" [[2 Timothy 1:14]] and the **Spirit** that gives life to mortal bodies [[Romans 8:11]].
* `{{G3485}}` **naós** (a fane, shrine, temple): This word identifies the believer as the location of the divine indwelling. Believers are called the **temple** of God precisely because God has promised to **dwell** in them [[2 Corinthians 6:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1774}}` is significant for understanding the Christian life. It underscores several key doctrines:
* **The Indwelling God:** The word moves the presence of God from a physical building to a personal relationship. God's promise to "I will **dwell** in them, and walk in them" [[2 Corinthians 6:16]] signifies a constant, internal communion with His people.
* **The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit:** The Spirit is not an external force but an internal resident. It is by the "Spirit that **dwelleth** in you" that believers have the power for new life [[Romans 8:11]] and are enabled to keep the faith [[2 Timothy 1:14]].
* **The Centrality of God's Word:** The command to let the word of Christ **dwell** richly within [[Colossians 3:16]] establishes scripture as a living, active presence that should inhabit a believer's mind and heart.
* **The Nature of Living Faith:** Faith is portrayed as an active, inhabiting reality that can be observed and passed through generations, as it **dwelt** first in Lois, then Eunice, and then Timothy [[2 Timothy 1:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1774}}` is a crucial term that defines the internal nature of a believer's relationship with God. It signifies more than simple existence; it implies a deep and active habitation. Whether it is God Himself, the Holy Spirit, the word of Christ, or a living faith, **enoikéō** points to the profound truth that believers are the chosen dwelling place for the divine.
TRV