### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **thēlys**, represented by `{{G2338}}`, is the specific term for **female** or **woman**. It appears only **5 times** in **5 unique verses**, but its usage is significant. It is primarily used to establish the foundational distinction of gender in creation and to discuss the implications of this distinction in both natural order and spiritual identity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Gospels, `{{G2338}}` is used by Jesus to recall the doctrine of creation, stating that from the beginning God "made them male and **female**" ([[Matthew 19:4]], [[Mark 10:6]]). The Apostle Paul uses the term in Romans to describe the consequences of humanity's rebellion against God, where women (**female**) "did change the natural use into that which is against nature" [[Romans 1:26]], and men left the natural use of the **woman** [[Romans 1:27]]. In contrast, Paul also uses `{{G2338}}` in Galatians to declare that in Christ, earthly distinctions are transcended: "there is neither male nor **female**: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus" [[Galatians 3:28]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{G2338}}` is used:
* `{{G730}}` **árrhēn** (male): As the direct counterpart to **female**, this word is used in tandem with `{{G2338}}` to establish the binary nature of humanity as created by God [[Mark 10:6]].
* `{{G5449}}` **phýsis** (nature): This term is crucial for understanding the argument in Romans, where exchanging the "natural use" is set in opposition to God's created order [[Romans 1:26]].
* `{{G2937}}` **ktísis** (creation): This word establishes the context for God's original design, noting that from the beginning of the **creation**, God made them male and **female** [[Mark 10:6]].
* `{{G1520}}` **heîs** (one): This word highlights the theological resolution of social and biological distinctions, stating that all believers, regardless of being male or **female**, are made **one** in Christ [[Galatians 3:28]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2338}}` is demonstrated in several key doctrines.
* **Order of Creation:** The word is foundational to the biblical understanding of humanity, as God created mankind male and **female** from the beginning [[Matthew 19:4]]. This establishes a divinely-instituted order.
* **Spiritual Unity:** In Christ, the distinctions that often create division in the world, such as between male and **female**, are rendered irrelevant for one's standing before God. All are united as **one** in Christ Jesus [[Galatians 3:28]].
* **Departure from God's Design:** The term is used to illustrate the consequences of sin, where turning from God leads to the rejection of His created order, exemplified by women changing the **natural** use [[Romans 1:26]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2338}}` **thēlys** is a precise term that, despite its infrequent use, underpins significant theological concepts. It points directly to the origins of humanity as created by God, establishes the consequences of deviating from that natural order, and ultimately shows how these distinctions are superseded by a greater spiritual unity in Christ. It defines a fundamental aspect of human identity in relation to creation, the fall, and redemption.
TRV