### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **thélēsis**, represented by `{{G2308}}`, refers to **will**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The term signifies a determination or option, defining the act of willing itself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G2308}}` is in [[Hebrews 2:4]]. In this passage, the author describes how God {G2316} confirmed the message of salvation by "bearing them witness" {G4901}. This divine testimony was accomplished with signs {G4592}, wonders {G5059}, various miracles {G1411}, and distributed "gifts {G3311} of the Holy Ghost {G4151}." The distribution of these gifts is explicitly tied to God's sovereign choice, being done "according to his own **will**" [[Hebrews 2:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context in which `{{G2308}}` is found:
* `{{G2316}}` **theós** (God): Defined as "a deity, especially...the supreme Divinity," this term identifies the one whose **will** is paramount. The passage specifies that the gifts are distributed according to the **will** of **God** [[Hebrews 2:4]].
* `{{G3311}}` **merismós** (gift): Meaning "a separation or distribution," this word refers to the "**gifts** of the Holy Ghost" that are apportioned according to God's sovereign determination [[Hebrews 2:4]].
* `{{G1411}}` **dýnamis** (miraculous power): This word for "miraculous power" describes one of the specific manifestations of God's testimony. These mighty works are enacted according to His **will** [[Hebrews 2:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2308}}`, though found in a single verse, is significant. It highlights key aspects of God's character and work.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The term underscores that the distribution of spiritual gifts and miracles is an act of God's own sovereign **will**. It is His "determination" and "option" that governs these manifestations [[Hebrews 2:4]].
* **Confirmation of Truth:** God's **will** is directly linked to the act of "bearing them witness" {G4901}. The signs, wonders, and gifts are a deliberate outworking of His **will** to confirm the message of salvation.
* **Source of Spiritual Gifts:** The passage establishes that the "gifts {G3311} of the Holy {G40} Ghost {G4151}" are apportioned "according to his own **will**," identifying the divine determination as the source and standard for their distribution [[Hebrews 2:4]].
### Summary
In summary, **thélēsis** `{{G2308}}` is a precise term for **will** as a sovereign "determination." Though it appears only once, its use in [[Hebrews 2:4]] is pivotal. It firmly connects the miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit and the signs that confirmed the early preaching of the gospel directly to the deliberate and sovereign choice of God. The word illustrates how divine action is not arbitrary but flows from God's own purpose and option.
TRV