### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katoikéō**, represented by `{{G2730}}`, means to house permanently or to reside. It is derived from the words κατά and οἰκέω. Appearing **48 times** across **43 unique verses**, this term is used to describe both the literal, physical act of dwelling in a place and the figurative, spiritual act of indwelling.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2730}}` is used to establish a person's physical location, such as when Jesus "dwelt in Capernaum" [[Matthew 4:13]] or when devout Jews were "dwelling at Jerusalem" [[Acts 2:5]]. The book of Revelation frequently uses the phrase "them that dwell on the earth" to refer to the world's inhabitants, often in the context of judgment or deception ([[Revelation 6:10]], [[Revelation 13:14]]). On a spiritual level, the term describes a profound indwelling. Paul states that in Christ "dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily" [[Colossians 2:9]] and prays that Christ may "dwell in your hearts by faith" [[Ephesians 3:17]]. The word is also used to clarify that God "dwelleth not in temples made with hands" [[Acts 7:48]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of dwelling:
* `{{G1886}}` **épaulis**: This word means a hut over the head or a dwelling. In [[Acts 1:20]], it is used in a prophecy where a desolate **habitation** is contrasted with the act of someone else dwelling there.
* `{{G3485}}` **naós**: Meaning a fane, shrine, or temple, this word is often used in contrast to `{{G2730}}` to show that God's presence is not confined to a physical building. It is explicitly stated that God does not **dwell** in a **temple** made with hands [[Acts 17:24]].
* `{{G3939}}` **paroikéō**: This term means to reside as a foreigner or to sojourn. It contrasts with the permanence of `{{G2730}}`. In [[Hebrews 11:9]], Abraham is described as having **sojourned** in the promised land while **dwelling** in tabernacles.
* `{{G4637}}` **skēnóō**: Meaning to tent or encamp, this term is used to describe God's presence with His people. A distinction is made in [[Revelation 12:12]] between those who **dwell** (skēnóō) in the heavens and the **inhabiters** (katoikéō) of the earth.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2730}}` is significant, particularly in defining the nature of divine presence.
* **Divine Indwelling:** The word is central to the New Testament concept of God's presence with and in humanity. It describes the fullness of God **dwelling** in Christ [[Colossians 2:9]], Christ **dwelling** in the hearts of believers [[Ephesians 3:17]], and the Spirit that **dwelleth** in us [[James 4:5]].
* **Rejection of Physical Temples:** The assertion that God does not **dwell** in man-made temples marks a critical theological shift, emphasizing a spiritual rather than a physical location for God's residence [[Acts 7:48]].
* **Eschatological Identity:** In Revelation, the phrase "them that **dwell** on the earth" becomes a technical term for humanity in opposition to God, those who worship the beast [[Revelation 13:8]] and rejoice over the death of God's prophets [[Revelation 11:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2730}}` provides a rich concept of residence that transcends a physical address. It speaks of a permanent and settled state, whether it is a person in a city, the fullness of God in Christ, or Christ in a believer's heart. The term is crucial for understanding the New Testament's teaching on the nature of God's presence and for identifying the spiritual condition of those who inhabit the earth during the final days described in Revelation.
TRV