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.
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.
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.
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.
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