### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **theótēs**, represented by `{{G2320}}`, is defined as **divinity** or **godhead** in an abstract sense. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, yet its singular use carries immense theological weight. It serves to articulate the very essence of divine nature.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G2320}}` is found in [[Colossians 2:9]], which states, "For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the **Godhead** bodily." This pivotal verse uses the term to make a definitive statement about Christ. The context establishes that the complete and total essence of divinity—the **Godhead**—has its permanent residence in him, not just spiritually or metaphorically, but in a physical, bodily form.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Greek words used in conjunction with `{{G2320}}` in its only occurrence help to clarify its meaning:
* `{{G2730}}` **katoikéō** (to house permanently, i.e. reside): This verb highlights that the Godhead's presence in Christ is a permanent indwelling, not a temporary visitation. This contrasts with statements that God **dwelleth** not in temples made with hands [[Acts 7:48]].
* `{{G4138}}` **plḗrōma** (repletion or completion... fulness): This noun specifies that the entirety of the divine nature resides in Christ. It is not a portion or an attribute of God, but the complete **fulness** of His being, a concept also seen when believers are to be filled with all the **fulness** of God [[Ephesians 3:19]].
* `{{G4985}}` **sōmatikōs** (corporeally or physically): This unique adverb modifies the entire statement, emphasizing that the indwelling of the Godhead is **bodily**. It grounds the abstract concept of divinity in a physical, incarnate reality [[Colossians 2:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2320}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful application.
* **The Incarnation:** The term is central to the doctrine of the Incarnation. Its use in [[Colossians 2:9]] affirms that the divine nature was fully present in the person of Christ in a physical body.
* **Deity of Christ:** By stating that "all the fulness of the **Godhead**" dwells in him, the verse makes an unambiguous claim about Christ's full divinity. This is not a shared or partial divinity but the complete essence of God.
* **Permanent Residence:** The use of the verb **katoikéō** (dwelleth) with **theótēs** signifies a settled and permanent union of the divine nature within a physical form, establishing a new kind of temple not made with hands [[Acts 17:24]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G2320}}` appears only once in scripture, its significance is profound. The word **theótēs** is used exclusively to define the nature of Christ in [[Colossians 2:9]]. In this single verse, it establishes that the entire, complete, and full essence of the **Godhead** resides permanently and physically in Him. This makes the term a cornerstone for understanding the biblical teaching on the person and nature of Christ.
TRV