### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katoikētḗrion**, represented by `{{G2732}}`, is a specific term for a **dwelling-place** or **habitation**. It is a rare word, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning is defined entirely by its inhabitant, representing either a place of divine presence or a domain of spiritual corruption.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{G2732}}` present a stark contrast. In Ephesians, it describes the church as a holy dwelling place, where believers are "builded together for an **habitation** of God through the Spirit" [[Ephesians 2:22]]. This highlights a constructive and sacred purpose. Conversely, in Revelation, the fallen city of Babylon becomes the "**habitation** of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit" [[Revelation 18:2]]. This depicts a place of judgment and utter spiritual desolation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of this term:
* `{{G4925}}` **synoikodoméō** (to construct, i.e. (passively) to compose (in company with other Christians, figuratively):--build together): This word is used directly with `{{G2732}}` to explain that the divine habitation is not a static object but is actively being "builded together" by God, involving believers [[Ephesians 2:22]].
* `{{G5438}}` **phylakḗ** (a guarding or (concretely, guard)...:--cage, hold, (im-)prison(-ment), ward, watch): In Revelation, this word is used in parallel with habitation, describing fallen Babylon as a "**hold**" and a "**cage**," emphasizing its role as a prison for unclean spirits [[Revelation 18:2]].
* `{{G2316}}` **theós** (a deity, especially (with ὁ) the supreme Divinity): This word identifies the holy inhabitant of the dwelling in [[Ephesians 2:22]], elevating the concept to a sacred temple for **God**.
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (a current of air... a spirit): This term highlights the spiritual nature of the habitation. It is through the **Spirit** that believers become a dwelling for God [[Ephesians 2:22]], and it is foul **spirits** that occupy the fallen habitation of Babylon [[Revelation 18:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2732}}` is demonstrated in its two distinct applications:
* **The Church as a Divine Dwelling:** The primary theological use is to portray the collective body of believers as a spiritual structure inhabited by God. It is a place "builded together" `{{G4925}}` for God's presence, made possible "through the Spirit" `{{G4151}}`, as seen in [[Ephesians 2:22]].
* **A Dwelling of Evil:** The term is also used to signify a place completely given over to demonic influence. Fallen Babylon becomes a **habitation** for devils, a state of spiritual ruin that serves as a container for every "foul spirit" and "unclean" bird [[Revelation 18:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2732}}` is a focused term for a **habitation** whose character is determined by its occupant. While it appears only twice, it powerfully illustrates two opposing spiritual realities. It can be the sacred dwelling place of God, formed by believers united in the Spirit, or it can be a desolate place of judgment, serving as a hold for demonic forces. The word's significance lies not in the structure itself, but in who—or what—resides within.
TRV