### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ésō**, represented by `{{G2080}}`, is used to denote concepts of **inside** or **within**. It appears 8 times across 8 unique verses in the Bible. The term can function as a preposition or an adjective, referring to a physical location or an internal state, such as **inner** or **inward**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its literal sense, `{{G2080}}` is used to describe being physically inside a place. For example, Peter followed Jesus and went **in** to the high priest's palace [[Matthew 26:58]], and soldiers led Jesus away **into** the hall called Praetorium [[Mark 15:16]]. It is also used to describe the disciples being **within** a room when Jesus appeared to them [[John 20:26]]. The word also carries a theological dimension, most notably in its reference to the "**inner** man" [[Ephesians 3:16]] or the "**inward** man" [[Romans 7:22]], signifying a person's spiritual core. Furthermore, it is used to define the boundaries of the church community, as in the instruction to judge "them that are **within**" [[1 Corinthians 5:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of `{{G2080}}`:
* `{{G1854}}` **éxō** (out(-side, of doors)): This is the direct antonym of **ésō**, often used in contrast to define a boundary. For instance, in [[Acts 5:23]], guards are standing **without** the prison doors, while inside there is no one **within** `{{G2080}}`.
* `{{G444}}` **ánthrōpos** (man-faced, i.e. a human being): This term is combined with **ésō** to form the crucial concept of the "inner **man**" [[Ephesians 3:16]] or "inward **man**" [[Romans 7:22]], referring to the non-physical, spiritual part of a person.
* `{{G2901}}` **krataióō** (to empower, i.e. (passively) increase in vigor): This word describes the action that occurs in the "inner man," who is to **be strengthened** with might by God's Spirit [[Ephesians 3:16]].
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (a spirit...the Holy Spirit): The "inner man" is the domain where the Holy **Spirit** works, strengthening the believer according to the riches of God's glory [[Ephesians 3:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2080}}` is centered on the concept of the internal life of a believer.
* **The Spiritual Self:** **Ésō** defines the spiritual component of a person, the "**inward** man" that delights in God's law, which is distinct from the fleshly nature [[Romans 7:22]].
* **The Realm of Divine Power:** The "inner man" is the specific place where believers are to be strengthened with **might** `{{G1411}}` by God's **Spirit** `{{G4151}}`, a work rooted in the riches of His **glory** `{{G1391}}`, as described in [[Ephesians 3:16]].
* **Defining Community Boundaries:** The term creates a clear distinction between those who are part of the community of faith ("them that are **within**") and those outside of it, which establishes a context for church identity and discipline [[1 Corinthians 5:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2080}}` **ésō** moves from a simple descriptor of physical location to a profound theological concept. It defines not only physical spaces like a palace [[Matthew 26:58]] or a prison [[Acts 5:23]], but more importantly, the spiritual arena of the "inner man" [[Ephesians 3:16]]. This word is crucial for understanding the distinction between the internal life of a believer and the external world, and it identifies the very space where God's Spirit works to strengthen His people.
TRV