### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **thnētós**, represented by `{{G2349}}`, means **mortal** or "liable to die." It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. This term specifically describes the nature of the human body and earthly existence as being subject to death.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2349}}` consistently describes the temporary and fragile nature of human life in its current state. It is used to define the physical body as a **mortal** vessel where sin can reign if not submitted to God [[Romans 6:12]]. The term also applies to our earthly **flesh**, in which the life of Jesus is to be made manifest [[2 Corinthians 4:11]]. A central theme is the contrast between our present condition and future glory, as believers anticipate their **mortal** nature being swallowed up by life [[2 Corinthians 5:4]] and putting on immortality at the resurrection [[1 Corinthians 15:53-54]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the state of mortality and its future resolution:
* `{{G5349}}` **phthartós** (perishable): This adjective, meaning "decayed," is used in parallel with `{{G2349}}` to describe the present earthly body. Scripture states that "this **corruptible** must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality" [[1 Corinthians 15:53]].
* `{{G110}}` **athanasía** (immortality): Meaning "deathlessness," this is the direct antonym of `{{G2349}}`. It represents the future state that believers will receive when this **mortal** puts on **immortality** [[1 Corinthians 15:54]].
* `{{G4983}}` **sōma** (body): The physical **body** is what is often described as being mortal. The promise is that God will "quicken your mortal **bodies**" through His Spirit [[Romans 8:11]].
* `{{G2222}}` **zōḗ** (life): This term for **life** is presented as the ultimate force that overcomes mortality. Believers groan in their earthly tabernacles, waiting for **mortality** to be "swallowed up of life" [[2 Corinthians 5:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2349}}` is found in its role in the doctrine of resurrection and glorification.
* **The Problem of Sin and Death:** The term defines the human condition where the "mortal body" is a place where **sin** `{{G266}}` seeks to reign through its **lusts** `{{G1939}}`, highlighting the spiritual battle within our finite existence [[Romans 6:12]].
* **The Promise of Resurrection:** `{{G2349}}` is never presented as a final state for the believer. It consistently appears in contexts that point toward a future transformation, where this **mortal** will be exchanged for **immortality** `{{G110}}` [[1 Corinthians 15:53]] and **death** `{{G2288}}` is defeated in **victory** `{{G3534}}` [[1 Corinthians 15:54]].
* **The Power of the Spirit:** The agent of this change from mortal to immortal is the Spirit of God. The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the **dead** `{{G3498}}` will also **quicken** `{{G2227}}` or give life to our **mortal** bodies [[Romans 8:11]].
* **A Temporary Dwelling:** Our current state is described as a **tabernacle** `{{G4636}}` or temporary residence, in which we **groan** `{{G4727}}`, longing for our heavenly dwelling so that **mortality** might be swallowed up by **life** `{{G2222}}` [[2 Corinthians 5:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2349}}` is a specific term that defines the present human condition as "liable to die." It is used not to emphasize hopelessness, but rather to serve as the backdrop against which the Christian hope of resurrection shines. The concept of the **mortal** body and flesh is consistently contrasted with the promise of future **immortality** and **life**, a transformation made possible by the power of God's Spirit. It encapsulates the journey from a temporary, fragile state to a permanent, glorified existence in Christ.
TRV