### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **κληρονομέω (klēronoméō)**, represented by `{{G2816}}`, means **to be an heir to** or to **(obtain by) inherit(-ance)**, in either a literal or figurative sense. It appears **22 times** across **17 unique verses** in the Bible, primarily referring to the spiritual inheritance promised to believers.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G2816}}` is central to the concept of salvation and eternal reward. It is frequently used in the context of what one must do to **inherit** eternal life, a question posed to Jesus by a ruler and a lawyer ([[Luke 18:18]]; [[Luke 10:25]]). The term also defines what is to be inherited, including "the earth" by the meek [[Matthew 5:5]], a "blessing" for those who do not return evil for evil [[1 Peter 3:9]], and ultimately "all things" for the one who overcomes [[Revelation 21:7]]. Conversely, scripture warns that the unrighteous, including fornicators, idolaters, and drunkards, will not **inherit** the kingdom of God ([[1 Corinthians 6:9-10]]; [[Galatians 5:21]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature and conditions of this inheritance:
* `{{G5207}}` **huiós** (son): This term defines the relationship required for inheritance. The promise to the overcomer is not just to inherit, but also that "he shall be my **son**" [[Revelation 21:7]], while the son of the bondwoman is explicitly excluded from being an heir [[Galatians 4:30]].
* `{{G1860}}` **epangelía** (promise): This word specifies what is being inherited. Believers are called to be followers of those who, through faith and patience, **inherit** the **promises** [[Hebrews 6:12]].
* `{{G4561}}` **sárx** (flesh): This term establishes a critical distinction about the nature of the inheritance. It is a spiritual, not a physical, reality, as "flesh and blood cannot **inherit** the kingdom of God" [[1 Corinthians 15:50]].
* `{{G1544}}` **ekbállō** (to eject): This word represents the opposite of inheriting. In the allegory of the bondwoman and the freewoman, the son who is not an heir is to be **cast out** [[Galatians 4:30]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2816}}` is significant, outlining the believer's ultimate hope and destiny.
* **The Kingdom as Inheritance:** The primary inheritance for believers is the "kingdom of God" [[Matthew 25:34]]. This is presented as a gift prepared for the blessed of the Father from the foundation of the world.
* **Conditional Inheritance:** Access to this inheritance is linked to one's spiritual state and actions. Those who practice works of the flesh like "drunkenness" `{{G3178}}` and "revellings" `{{G2970}}` are explicitly excluded [[Galatians 5:21]]. In contrast, the "meek" `{{G4239}}` are promised they will **inherit** the earth [[Matthew 5:5]].
* **A Spiritual Reality:** The inheritance is incorruptible. The declaration that "flesh `{{G4561}}` and blood `{{G129}}` cannot **inherit** the kingdom" emphasizes that this is not an earthly, perishable reward but a spiritual one, where corruption does not **inherit** "incorruption" `{{G861}}` [[1 Corinthians 15:50]].
* **Heirs of Salvation:** Believers are described as those who will be "heirs of salvation `{{G4991}}`" [[Hebrews 1:14]], highlighting that the inheritance is the full realization of God's saving work.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2816}}` elevates the concept of inheritance from a legal or familial transfer of property to the ultimate spiritual promise for the faithful. It defines the believer's destiny: to receive eternal life, the kingdom of God, and a divine blessing. This inheritance is not an automatic right but is contingent on a transformed life of faith, meekness, and perseverance, culminating in a relationship where the believer becomes a son `{{G5207}}` and inherits all that God has promised.
TRV