### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katoíkēsis**, represented by `{{G2731}}`, refers to a **dwelling** or **residence**. It is a very specific term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. The word is defined as a residence, which can mean the act of residing or, by implication, the mansion or dwelling place itself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G2731}}` is found in the account of a man who had his **dwelling** among the **tombs** `{{G3419}}`. This context immediately frames the word with themes of death, isolation, and spiritual affliction. The man's condition was so severe that the verse notes **no man** `{{G3762}}` **could** `{{G1410}}` **bind** `{{G1210}}` him, not even with **chains** `{{G254}}`, highlighting the power that confined him to such a desolate residence [[Mark 5:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its single biblical appearance clarify the nature of this unique **dwelling**:
* `{{G3419}}` **mnēmeîon**: This word, meaning **grave**, **sepulchre**, or **tomb**, is the specific location of the man's **dwelling** `{{G2731}}`. It establishes the residence as a place of the dead, as also seen when men possessed by devils came "out of the **tombs**" [[Matthew 8:28]].
* `{{G1410}}` **dýnamai**: Meaning to **be able** or possible, this word highlights the powerlessness of humanity to alter the man's situation. It emphasizes that no one was **able** to subdue him in his **dwelling** among the tombs [[Mark 5:3]].
* `{{G1210}}` **déō**: This verb means **to bind**. Its use in this context shows that all attempts at physical restraint had failed. The inability **to bind** him underscores the spiritual nature of the bondage that defined his life and his **dwelling** `{{G2731}}` [[Mark 5:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2731}}` is derived entirely from its dark and specific context.
* **A Residence of Spiritual Death:** By describing the man's **dwelling** as being among the **tombs** `{{G3419}}`, the term illustrates a state of existence completely dominated by forces of death and uncleanness, separated from community and life.
* **Beyond Human Power:** The man's state in his **dwelling** is explicitly beyond human control, as **no man** `{{G3762}}` **could** `{{G1410}}` **bind** `{{G1210}}` him [[Mark 5:3]]. This highlights a condition that requires divine intervention, as human strength is insufficient.
* **A Portrait of Bondage:** The man's physical **dwelling** `{{G2731}}` in a place of death is a powerful external picture of his internal spiritual bondage, where he could not be restrained by any human means.
### Summary
In summary, **katoíkēsis** `{{G2731}}` is a rare biblical term for **dwelling** that carries a significant and somber meaning due to its singular use. It is not used to describe a home or a palace, but rather a place of exile among the dead. It vividly portrays a state of profound spiritual affliction and isolation, a residence so consumed by darkness that it was beyond any human ability to remedy.
TRV