### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kosméō**, represented by `{{G2885}}`, means **to put in proper order**. Appearing **10 times** in **10 unique verses**, its meaning extends beyond simple decoration to include adorning, garnishing, and trimming. The word suggests arranging something to be fitting, beautiful, or in a correct state, both literally and figuratively.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{G2885}}` is used in several distinct contexts. It can refer to physical decoration, such as the temple being **adorned** with **goodly** stones and gifts [[Luke 21:5]] or the foundations of the new city being **garnished with** all manner of precious stones [[Revelation 21:19]]. It is also used for personal appearance, as in the instruction for women to **adorn** themselves in modest apparel [[1 Timothy 2:9]]. Figuratively, the holy city, New Jerusalem, is described as a bride **adorned** for her husband [[Revelation 21:2]]. In a practical sense, it is used when the virgins arose and **trimmed** their lamps [[Matthew 25:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of proper order and adornment:
* `{{G2887}}` **kósmios** (of good behaviour, modest): Derived from the same root as `{{G2885}}`, this word emphasizes an "orderly, i.e. decorous" state. It is used to describe the kind of **modest** apparel with which women should adorn themselves [[1 Timothy 2:9]].
* `{{G3565}}` **nýmphē** (bride, daughter in law): Defined as "a young married woman (as veiled)," this word is used for the **bride** in the powerful imagery of the New Jerusalem being **adorned** for her husband, connecting preparation with relational beauty [[Revelation 21:2]].
* `{{G1342}}` **díkaios** (just, right(-eous)): Meaning "equitable (in character or act)," this word appears in a passage where Jesus condemns the scribes and Pharisees who **garnish** the sepulchres of the **righteous**, highlighting a contrast between outward decoration and true inner holiness [[Matthew 23:29]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G2885}}` is centered on the relationship between outward presentation and inner substance.
* **Outward vs. Inward State:** The word is used to describe both a positive, well-ordered appearance and a negative, superficial one. While women are encouraged to **adorn** themselves with sobriety [[1 Timothy 2:9]], a house can be **swept** and **garnished** yet remain spiritually empty ([[Matthew 12:44]], [[Luke 11:25]]).
* **Adorning the Doctrine:** Believers are called to **adorn** the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things [[Titus 2:10]]. This shows that a person's life and conduct can serve to beautify and put in proper order the perception of God's truth in the world.
* **Spiritual Readiness:** The imagery of the virgins who **trimmed** their lamps [[Matthew 25:7]] and the bride **adorned** for her husband [[Revelation 21:2]] uses `{{G2885}}` to signify a state of readiness and proper preparation for a key event.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2885}}` is a multifaceted term that moves from literal decoration to the concept of putting things into their proper order. It applies to places, people, and principles, from garnishing a building to trimming a lamp or beautifying spiritual doctrine through one's life. The word serves as a consistent reminder that while outward order is valued, it must be accompanied by a corresponding inner substance and readiness.
TRV