### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epoikodoméō**, represented by `{{G2026}}`, means **to build upon** or, figuratively, **to rear up**. It is derived from ἐπί and οἰκοδομέω. This word appears **8 times** in **7 unique verses** in the Bible. Its core idea involves adding to an existing structure or foundation, often in a spiritual or metaphorical sense.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2026}}` is used metaphorically to describe spiritual growth and the establishment of the church. Believers are called to be "**building up** yourselves on your most holy faith" [[Jude 1:20]]. This growth is established on a specific base, as seen in Ephesians, where believers are described as being "**built** upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone" [[Ephesians 2:20]]. The quality of what is built upon this foundation is also critical, as seen in the admonition to take heed how one "**buildeth** thereupon" [[1 Corinthians 3:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concept of spiritual construction:
* `{{G2310}}` **themélios** (something put down, i.e. a substruction (of a building, etc.), (literally or figuratively):--foundation): This is the base upon which one builds. Paul states that no one can lay any other **foundation** than Jesus Christ [[1 Corinthians 3:11]].
* `{{G753}}` **architéktōn** (a chief constructor, i.e. "architect":--masterbuilder): This term describes the one who lays the foundation. Paul identifies himself as a wise **masterbuilder** who laid the foundation upon which others build [[1 Corinthians 3:10]].
* `{{G4492}}` **rhizóō** (to root (figuratively, become stable):--root): Used alongside `{{G2026}}`, it emphasizes the source of stability for what is being built. Believers are to be "**Rooted** and built up in him" [[Colossians 2:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2026}}` is centered on the believer's spiritual development and the church's formation.
* **The Unshakable Foundation:** The act of "building upon" is always connected to a pre-existing foundation. This foundation is explicitly identified as Jesus Christ [[1 Corinthians 3:11]] and the teachings of the apostles and prophets [[Ephesians 2:20]].
* **Continuous Spiritual Construction:** Believers are actively involved in this building process. They are instructed to be "**building up** yourselves on your most holy faith" [[Jude 1:20]] and to be "**rooted** and **built up** in him" [[Colossians 2:7]]. This implies a dynamic and ongoing spiritual growth.
* **Divine Empowerment and Inheritance:** The ability to **build up** is a gift of God's grace through His word. This process leads to a promised "inheritance among all them which are sanctified" [[Acts 20:32]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2026}}` is a key term for understanding Christian discipleship and ecclesiology. It moves beyond literal construction to a powerful metaphor for spiritual development. The word illustrates that faith is not a static state but a dynamic process of being **built up** on the singular foundation of Jesus Christ [[Ephesians 2:20]]. It emphasizes the responsibility of every believer to build carefully [[1 Corinthians 3:10]] and the power of God's word to accomplish this work, ultimately leading to an inheritance with the sanctified [[Acts 20:32]].
TRV