### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epígeios**, represented by `{{G1919}}`, is defined as **worldly**, referring to things that are **earthly**, **in earth**, or **terrestrial**. It is derived from the words ἐπί and γῆ. It appears **7 times** across **6 unique verses**, where it is used to describe things in both a physical and a moral sense.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1919}}` is consistently used to draw a contrast between the physical or worldly realm and the heavenly or spiritual one. Jesus uses it to distinguish between his teachings on "**earthly things**" and "heavenly things" [[John 3:12]]. Paul employs it to differentiate between "**terrestrial**" bodies and "celestial" bodies, each with its own kind of glory [[1 Corinthians 15:40]]. In a moral context, the word describes a mindset focused on "**earthly things**," which is associated with those whose "end is destruction" [[Philippians 3:19]]. It also describes our physical body as an "**earthly** house" that will one day be dissolved [[2 Corinthians 5:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of `{{G1919}}`:
* `{{G2032}}` **epouránios** (celestial, (in) heaven(-ly), high): This word is the direct counterpart to `{{G1919}}` and is often used in the same verse to contrast heavenly things with earthly ones ([[John 3:12]], [[1 Corinthians 15:40]]).
* `{{G5591}}` **psychikós** (natural, sensual): In [[James 3:15]], this word is used alongside "earthly" to describe a wisdom that is not from above, highlighting its unspiritual nature.
* `{{G4636}}` **skēnos** (tabernacle): This term refers to a temporary residence and is used figuratively to describe our "**earthly** house," emphasizing the transient nature of our physical bodies [[2 Corinthians 5:1]].
* `{{G1141}}` **daimoniṓdēs** (devilish): This is used in conjunction with "earthly" and "sensual" to describe the character of worldly wisdom, framing it as demonic in origin [[James 3:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1919}}` lies in the clear distinction it draws between two opposing realms and mindsets.
* **The Created Order:** The word is used to define the physical realm of the earth as distinct from heaven and what is under the earth. At the name of Jesus `{{G2424}}`, every knee will bow, including those of "things **in earth**" [[Philippians 2:10]].
* **Temporal vs. Eternal:** `{{G1919}}` highlights the transient nature of our current existence. Our "**earthly** house" is temporary, but it will be replaced by a building from God `{{G2316}}` that is "eternal in the heavens" [[2 Corinthians 5:1]].
* **Worldly vs. Godly Focus:** The term serves as a warning against a worldly mindset. The wisdom that is **earthly** `{{G1919}}` is also "sensual" `{{G5591}}` and "devilish" `{{G1141}}` [[James 3:15]]. Those who "mind **earthly things**" have their belly as their god and find glory in their shame [[Philippians 3:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1919}}` is a crucial term for understanding the biblical contrast between the worldly and the heavenly. It defines the physical, **terrestrial** realm and our temporary bodies, while also serving as a stark warning against a mindset fixed on **earthly** concerns. By contrasting the earthly with the celestial `{{G2032}}`, the temporal with the eternal `{{G166}}`, and worldly wisdom with that from above, the word consistently directs the believer's focus away from the transient world toward God and His eternal kingdom.
TRV