### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **klēróō**, represented by `{{G2820}}`, means to allot or, figuratively, to assign a privilege. It is most commonly translated as to **obtain an inheritance**. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its sole appearance highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G2820}}` is found in [[Ephesians 1:11]], where it describes the believer's standing in Christ: "In whom also we have **obtained an inheritance**." The context makes it clear that this inheritance is not earned through human effort but is a direct result of divine action. The verse immediately connects this allotment to a higher plan, stating that believers are "predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its immediate context clarify the source and nature of this inheritance:
* `{{G4309}}` **proorízō** (predestinate): This word means to "limit in advance" or "predetermine." It establishes that the inheritance was assigned as part of God's foreordained plan [[Ephesians 1:11]].
* `{{G4286}}` **próthesis** (purpose): This term refers to a "setting forth" or "intention." The inheritance is granted according to God's deliberate purpose [[Ephesians 1:11]].
* `{{G1012}}` **boulḗ** (counsel): Defined as "volition" or "advice," this word shows that God's purpose is not arbitrary but is based on His own counsel [[Ephesians 1:11]].
* `{{G1754}}` **energéō** (to work): This term means "to be active, efficient." It describes God as the one who actively and effectively "worketh" all things to bring about His plan [[Ephesians 1:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2820}}` is profound, focusing on the sovereign grace of God in salvation.
* **Divine Allotment:** The core meaning of "to allot" emphasizes that the spiritual inheritance of believers is a privilege assigned by God, not something seized or merited by the recipient.
* **Predestined Security:** Its use alongside "being predestinated" `{{G4309}}` shows that this inheritance is secure, having been determined by God in advance according to His purpose [[Ephesians 1:11]].
* **Sovereign Will:** The inheritance is obtained based on the "counsel of his own will" (`{{G1012}}`, `{{G2307}}`), underscoring that the ultimate cause and guarantee of this privilege is God's sovereign choice and action.
### Summary
In summary, while used only once, `{{G2820}}` is a theologically rich word. It concisely conveys that the believer's inheritance is not an accident or a reward for works, but a divinely allotted privilege. Its sole appearance in [[Ephesians 1:11]] anchors this concept firmly in the unshakeable foundation of God’s sovereign purpose, counsel, and will.
TRV