### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **héxis**, represented by `{{G1838}}`, is defined as **habit, i.e. (by implication) practice**. Derived from the word ἔχω (échō), it appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its rarity emphasizes the specific context in which it is used to describe a developed state resulting from practice.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G1838}}` is found in [[Hebrews 5:14]], where it is translated as **use**. The verse explains that "strong meat" is for the mature, specifically "those who by reason of **use** have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil." The term directly links the concept of consistent practice or habit to the development of spiritual discernment in those who are described as being of "full age" `{{G5046}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the function of **héxis**:
* `{{G2192}}` **échō** (to hold): As the root word, it establishes the state of possessing a developed faculty. The verse describes those who **have** their senses exercised by reason of use [[Hebrews 5:14]].
* `{{G1128}}` **gymnázō** (to... train (figuratively)): This describes the action that **héxis** enables. Through constant **use**, the senses become **exercised** for a specific purpose [[Hebrews 5:14]].
* `{{G145}}` **aisthētḗrion** (judgment): This is the faculty that is trained through practice. The "use" of `{{G1838}}` is applied directly to the **senses** to develop them [[Hebrews 5:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1838}}` is centered on the concept of spiritual maturation.
* **A Mark of Maturity:** The word is exclusively used to describe those who are of "full age" `{{G5046}}` and ready for "strong meat" `{{G4731}}``{{G5160}}`, distinguishing them from those who still have need of milk [[Hebrews 5:12]].
* **The Development of Discernment:** Habitual practice, or **use**, is presented as the mechanism for training the spiritual "senses" `{{G145}}` to achieve "judicial estimation" `{{G1253}}`, which is the ability to discern between good `{{G2570}}` and evil `{{G2556}}` [[Hebrews 5:14]].
* **Practice as a Prerequisite:** The connection between **use** `{{G1838}}` and having one's senses "exercised" `{{G1128}}` shows that spiritual discernment is not automatic but is a faculty developed through disciplined, consistent habit.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1838}}` **héxis**, though appearing only once, offers a crucial insight into spiritual development. It defines the process of **practice** or **habit** as the means by which a believer moves from spiritual infancy to maturity. Its singular context in [[Hebrews 5:14]] illustrates that the ability to discern good from evil is a faculty that must be actively and habitually trained. The word underscores that mature faith is characterized by a well-practiced ability for moral and spiritual judgment.
TRV