from (a straight reed, i.e. rod); a rule ("canon"), i.e. (figuratively) a standard (of faith and practice); by implication, a boundary, i.e. (figuratively) a sphere (of activity):--line, rule.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kanṓn**, represented by `{{G2583}}`, defines a **rule**, **standard**, or **boundary**. Deriving from a word for a straight reed or rod, it is used figuratively as a standard for faith and practice. It appears **6 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible, where it can also imply a boundary or a designated sphere of activity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2583}}` is used to establish both a standard for conduct and a limit for ministry. It is presented as a principle believers should follow, as seen when Paul speaks of those who **walk** according to this **rule** [[Galatians 6:16]]. This idea is reinforced in his call for believers to **walk by the same rule** to which they have already attained [[Philippians 3:16]]. In a different context, Paul uses the term to define his God-given sphere of influence, stating he will not boast beyond the **measure** of the **rule** which God distributed to him [[2 Corinthians 10:13]], later referring to it as another man's **line** [[2 Corinthians 10:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the application of this standard or boundary:
* `{{G4748}}` **stoichéō** (to march in (military) rank (keep step), i.e. (figuratively) to conform to virtue and piety:--walk (orderly)): This verb is paired directly with `{{G2583}}`, describing the action of conforming one's life to the divine **rule** [[Galatians 6:16]].
* `{{G3358}}` **métron** (an apparently primary word; a measure ("metre"), literally or figuratively; by implication, a limited portion (degree):-- measure.): This noun is used with **rule** to specify the limits of a God-given assignment, as in "the **measure** of the **rule**" [[2 Corinthians 10:13]].
* `{{G2744}}` **kaucháomai** (to vaunt (in a good or a bad sense):--(make) boast, glory, joy, rejoice): The concept of a **rule** is used to moderate boasting, ensuring it stays within the proper, God-assigned boundaries and not in the work of others [[2 Corinthians 10:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2583}}` is significant in defining Christian life and service.
* **A Standard for Conduct:** The word establishes a benchmark for Christian living. For those who walk according to this **rule**, the promised result is **peace** and **mercy** [[Galatians 6:16]], linking adherence to the standard with divine blessing.
* **Divinely Appointed Sphere of Ministry:** The term outlines a God-given boundary for ministry. Paul's authority in Corinth is based on the **rule** that God **distributed** to him, a sphere of activity he was meant to **reach** [[2 Corinthians 10:13]].
* **Apostolic Authority and Humility:** The **rule** serves as a basis for proper ministry, preventing one from boasting in another's **line** of things made ready [[2 Corinthians 10:16]]. It frames a minister's hope to be **enlarged** as their audience's faith is **increased** [[2 Corinthians 10:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2583}}` is more than a simple guideline. It functions as a divinely appointed "canon" or standard for both personal ethics and ministerial scope. It conveys a framework of order and accountability, illustrating how believers are to **walk** in their faith and how ministers are to operate within the specific **line** of work that God has assigned to them.
TRV