from κλῆρος and the base of νόμος (in its original sense of partitioning, i.e. (reflexively) getting by apportionment); a sharer by lot, i.e. inheritor (literally or figuratively); by implication, a possessor:--heir.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **klēronómos**, represented by `{{G2818}}`, is the primary term for an **heir**. It appears 15 times across 14 unique verses in the Bible. Based on its root words, its base definition is "a sharer by lot, i.e. inheritor" and, by implication, "a possessor." The term is used both literally for one who inherits property and figuratively for those who receive a divine promise or possession.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2818}}` is used in several key contexts. It identifies Christ as the supreme inheritor, whom God has "appointed **heir** of all things" [[Hebrews 1:2]]. The term is also used in a literal sense in the parable of the wicked husbandmen, who plot against the landowner's son, saying, "This is the **heir**; come, let us kill him, and let us seize on his inheritance" [[Matthew 21:38]]. For believers, the word defines a new spiritual status, as they are "heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ" [[Romans 8:17]] and "heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised" [[James 2:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of inheritance and spiritual position:
* `{{G5207}}` **huiós** (son): As the direct prerequisite for inheritance in many contexts, this word is critical. Believers are told, "if a **son**, then an **heir** of God through Christ" [[Galatians 4:7]].
* `{{G2817}}` **klēronomía** (inheritance): This is the possession or patrimony that an heir receives. The plot of the husbandmen was to kill the heir so that the **inheritance** might be theirs [[Mark 12:7]].
* `{{G4789}}` **synklēronómos** (co-heir): This term signifies a shared inheritance. Believers are not just heirs, but specifically **joint-heirs** with Christ, sharing in His promised glory [[Romans 8:17]].
* `{{G1401}}` **doûlos** (servant): This word is often contrasted with an heir to show a change in status. An **heir** who is still a child "differeth nothing from a **servant**," but upon maturity, he becomes "lord of all" [[Galatians 4:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2818}}` is significant, establishing a core doctrine of the believer's identity in Christ.
* **Inheritance Through Promise:** The status of an heir is tied to God's promise, not adherence to the law. The promise that Abraham would be the "**heir** of the world" came through faith [[Romans 4:13]], and if inheritance were by law, "the promise [would be] made of none effect" [[Romans 4:14]].
* **From Servitude to Sonship:** The transition to becoming an heir signifies a fundamental change in relationship with God. A believer is "no more a **servant**, but a son; and if a son, then an **heir** of God through Christ" [[Galatians 4:7]].
* **The Believer's Hope:** The position of an heir is the basis for future hope. Believers are "made **heirs** according to the hope of eternal life" [[Titus 3:7]] and are shown God's unchanging counsel as "the **heirs** of promise" [[Hebrews 6:17]].
* **Identification with Abraham:** Believers become heirs by being identified with Abraham's lineage of faith. Those who belong to Christ are "Abraham's **seed**, and **heirs** according to the promise" [[Galatians 3:29]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2818}}` moves from the simple concept of a legal inheritor to a profound theological truth. It defines the supreme status of Christ as the possessor of all things and establishes the identity of believers who, through faith, are adopted as sons and become co-heirs with Him. The word is central to understanding the New Testament doctrines of salvation, sonship, and the promised eternal kingdom.
TRV