### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **záō**, represented by `{{G2198}}`, is a primary verb meaning **to live**, both literally and figuratively. It appears 148 times across 127 unique verses, highlighting its importance in biblical thought. While it can denote simple biological existence, its deeper meaning extends to spiritual vitality, the very nature of God, and the new life available to believers.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2198}}` is used in several distinct contexts. It frequently describes God as the "**living** God," the ultimate source of all life, in contrast to lifeless idols ([[1 Thessalonians 1:9]], [[Acts 14:15]]). The term also defines the spiritual life believers receive through Christ, who provides "**living** water" [[John 4:10]] and is the "**living** bread" [[John 6:51]]. This new life is characterized by a new purpose: believers are to no longer "**live** unto themselves" but to him who died for them [[2 Corinthians 5:15]]. This contrasts with a merely superficial existence, such as having a name that one **livest**, but being dead [[Revelation 3:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of life in scripture:
* `{{G2222}}` **zōḗ** (life): This noun form represents the state or essence of being alive. Jesus identifies himself as "the resurrection and the **life**," promising that those who believe in him "shall **live**" `{{G2198}}` even if they die [[John 11:25]].
* `{{G2227}}` **zōopoiéō** (to (re-)vitalize): This verb signifies the act of making alive or quickening. It is used to describe how the Spirit **giveth life** [[2 Corinthians 3:6]] and how Christ, the last Adam, was made a **quickening** spirit [[1 Corinthians 15:45]].
* `{{G599}}` **apothnḗskō** (to die off): As a direct antonym, this verb is often contrasted with `{{G2198}}` to distinguish between physical and spiritual states. For the believer, "to **live** is Christ, and to **die** is gain" [[Philippians 1:21]].
* `{{G1343}}` **dikaiosýnē** (righteousness): This term defines the ethical quality and purpose of the new life. Believers are made dead to sin so that they might "**live** unto **righteousness**" [[1 Peter 2:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2198}}` is profound, framing the core Christian message of transformation from spiritual death to life.
* **The Source of Life:** God is fundamentally the "**living** God" [[Hebrews 9:14]], the source from whom believers receive a "**lively** hope" through the resurrection [[1 Peter 1:3]]. This establishes His absolute sovereignty over life and death.
* **Life in Christ:** Spiritual life is not an abstract concept but a reality found in Christ. The promise is, "because I **live**, ye shall **live** also" [[John 14:19]]. This new life is described as being crucified with Christ, so that it is "not I, but Christ **liveth** in me" [[Galatians 2:20]].
* **Life by Faith:** The means of obtaining this spiritual life is explicitly tied to faith. Scripture repeatedly states that "the just shall **live** by faith" ([[Romans 1:17]], [[Galatians 3:11]]).
* **Resurrection Life:** The word is central to the promise of resurrection. Jesus demonstrated his power over death by showing himself "**alive**" after his passion [[Acts 1:3]] and promised that the dead who hear his voice "shall **live**" [[John 5:25]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2198}}` transcends its simple definition of being alive. It is a foundational theological term that distinguishes between mere existence and true spiritual vitality. It points to God as the "**living** God," Christ as the source of eternal life, and faith as the means by which humanity can move from being dead in sin to being "**alive** unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord" [[Romans 6:11]].
TRV