### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Kolossaeús**, represented by `{{G2858}}`, is defined as a **Colossæan**, meaning an inhabitant of Colossæ. This term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, marking it as a highly specific identifier for a particular group of people.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole instance of `{{G2858}}` is found in the postscript of the epistle to the Colossians. This verse serves as a closing signature and provides crucial details about the letter's origin and delivery. It states that the letter was **written** `{{G1125}}` from **Rome** `{{G4516}}` **to** `{{G4314}}` the **Colossians** `{{G2858}}` and delivered **by** `{{G1223}}` **Tychicus** `{{G5190}}` **and** `{{G2532}}` **Onesimus** `{{G3682}}` [[Colossians 4:18]]. This use of the term directly identifies the intended audience of Paul's teachings, his request to "Remember my bonds," and his blessing of grace.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context in [[Colossians 4:18]] illuminate the meaning of `{{G2858}}`:
* `{{G3972}}` **Paûlos** (Paul): The author of the epistle, identifying himself as an apostle. The letter is his personal **salutation** `{{G783}}` and instruction to the church at Colossæ [[Colossians 4:18]].
* `{{G4516}}` **Rhṓmē** (Rome): The location from which the letter was **written** `{{G1125}}`. This establishes that the message to the **Colossians** `{{G2858}}` was sent from the capital of Italy while Paul was in **bonds** `{{G1199}}` [[Colossians 4:18]].
* `{{G5190}}` **Tychikós** (Tychicus): A Christian who, along with **Onesimus** `{{G3682}}`, was entrusted to deliver the epistle. This shows the logistical and personal network used to communicate with the **Colossians** `{{G2858}}` [[Colossians 4:18]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{G2858}}` is a simple geographical term, its use carries theological weight by defining the recipients of divine instruction.
* **Specific Audience:** The letter is addressed directly to the **Colossians** `{{G2858}}`, demonstrating that apostolic teaching was tailored to the needs, challenges, and context of a specific local body of believers.
* **Apostolic Care:** The address highlights the personal care of the apostle **Paul** `{{G3972}}`. Despite being in **bonds** `{{G1199}}` in **Rome** `{{G4516}}`, he remains connected to and invested in the spiritual well-being of the **Colossians** `{{G2858}}` [[Colossians 4:18]].
* **Fellowship and Ministry:** The fact that the letter was delivered to the **Colossians** `{{G2858}}` by named individuals like **Tychicus** `{{G5190}}` and **Onesimus** `{{G3682}}` emphasizes the role of fellowship and the ministry of believers in spreading the gospel and supporting the church [[Colossians 4:18]].
### Summary
In summary, **Kolossaeús** `{{G2858}}` is more than just a label for an inhabitant of Colossæ. Its singular appearance in scripture permanently affixes a specific community to an inspired text. Found in the closing of an epistle, it frames the entire work as a personal and direct communication from the apostle **Paul** `{{G3972}}` to a beloved church. The term anchors the letter's profound theological teachings to a real-world group of people, the **Colossians**, who received this message of grace from a chained apostle in **Rome** `{{G4516}}`.
TRV