of uncertain affinity; a deity, especially (with ὁ) the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very:--X exceeding, God, god(-ly, -ward).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **theós**, represented by `{{G2316}}`, is the foundational term for **God**. It appears **1343 times** across **1172 unique verses**, establishing its central role as the designation for the supreme Divinity. The word's core meaning is that of a deity, and in Scripture, it is used overwhelmingly to refer to the one true God, the creator and sustainer of all things.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2316}}` is used to define God's divine nature and his relationship with humanity. The term establishes the absolute deity of the Word, stating that "the Word was with **God**, and the Word was **God**" [[John 1:1]]. It describes His character, most notably His love for the world, which prompted Him to give His only Son [[John 3:16]]. The word also frames the covenantal promise where He declares, "I will be to them a **God**, and they shall be to me a people" [[Hebrews 8:10]]. Believers are themselves described as "the temple of the living **God**" [[2 Corinthians 6:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of God's identity and attributes:
* `{{G3962}}` **patḗr** (father): This term highlights the relational and personal nature of God. It is frequently used to identify Him as "the **Father** of glory" [[Ephesians 1:17]] and the one to whom believers are adopted as children [[1 John 3:1]].
* `{{G2962}}` **kýrios** (Lord, master): This word emphasizes God's supreme authority and sovereignty. It is often used in conjunction with `{{G2316}}`, as in the great commandment to "love the **Lord** thy **God**" [[Matthew 22:37]].
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (spirit): This term refers to the Holy Spirit, revealing the triune nature of God. God gives believers the "**spirit** of power, and of love, and of a sound mind" [[2 Timothy 1:7]], and the "**Spirit** of God" dwells within them [[1 Corinthians 3:16]].
* `{{G3056}}` **lógos** (word): In the context of John's gospel, this term is a title for the Divine Expression, Jesus Christ, establishing His deity by stating "the **Word** was God" [[John 1:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2316}}` is foundational to Christian doctrine. It anchors our understanding of God's character and His plan for salvation.
* **Sovereign Creator:** God is presented as the one for whom all things were created [[Revelation 4:11]]. He is **able** `{{G1415}}` to do all things [[2 Corinthians 9:8]], and His foundation stands **sure** `{{G4731}}` [[2 Timothy 2:19]]. His **power** `{{G1411}}` is manifest in the gospel for **salvation** `{{G4991}}` [[Romans 1:16]].
* **Divine Love and Grace:** The term is inseparable from God's **love** `{{G26}}` [[Romans 5:8]] and His identity as "the God of all **grace** `{{G5485}}`" [[1 Peter 5:10]]. Salvation itself is described as "the gift of **God**" [[Ephesians 2:8]].
* **Covenant Relationship:** Through `{{G2316}}`, believers understand their status as the "sons of **God**" [[John 1:12]] and His chosen **people** `{{G2992}}` [[2 Corinthians 6:16]]. The call to "Draw nigh to **God**" promises that He will draw nigh in return [[James 4:8]].
* **The One True God:** The word is used to distinguish the supreme Divinity from all false objects of worship, such as **idols** `{{G1497}}` [[2 Corinthians 6:16]]. Believers are to seek first the **kingdom** `{{G932}}` of God and His **righteousness** `{{G1343}}` [[Matthew 6:33]], knowing Him as "the only **true** `{{G228}}` **God**" [[John 17:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2316}}` moves far beyond a simple title, defining the very essence of the supreme Being. It encapsulates His sovereign power, His unchanging faithfulness, and His profound love. The word illustrates the nature of God as both transcendent Creator and immanent Father, who establishes a covenant with His people and calls them into relationship with Himself. It reveals the one true object of faith, worship, and life itself.
TRV