### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kosmokrátōr**, represented by `{{G2888}}`, identifies a **world-ruler**. It is a potent but rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its base definition points to an epithet of Satan, highlighting a being with significant influence over the world.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G2888}}` is in [[Ephesians 6:12]], where it clarifies the nature of the believer's conflict. The passage states that the struggle is not against **flesh** `{{G4561}}` and **blood** `{{G129}}`, but against a hierarchy of spiritual foes. Among these are the **rulers** of the darkness of this world, indicating that believers face organized, powerful entities who exert control within a spiritual domain of darkness.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the same verse give a fuller picture of this spiritual opposition:
* `{{G746}}` **archḗ** (principality): Defined as a chief or rule, this term is listed first, suggesting a high rank or beginning point of authority in this dark hierarchy [[Ephesians 6:12]].
* `{{G1849}}` **exousía** (power): This word signifies delegated influence and mastery, describing the authority wielded by these spiritual forces [[Ephesians 6:12]].
* `{{G4655}}` **skótos** (darkness): This describes the realm or state of obscurity where these rulers operate. Their authority is tied to this spiritual **darkness** [[Ephesians 6:12]].
* `{{G165}}` **aiṓn** (world): This specifies the scope of their influence, identifying it with this present age or world system [[Ephesians 6:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2888}}` is significant in understanding spiritual warfare.
* **Defining the Enemy:** The word explicitly frames the believer's struggle as spiritual, not physical. The fight is against unseen **rulers** rather than human opponents [[Ephesians 6:12]].
* **Domain of Authority:** These **rulers** operate within "the **darkness** `{{G4655}}` of this **world** `{{G165}}`". This establishes their sphere of influence as being tied to the current fallen age and a state of spiritual obscurity. This is echoed elsewhere when referencing the "god of this **world** `{{G165}}`" [[2 Corinthians 4:4]] and the "power `{{G1849}}` of **darkness** `{{G4655}}`" [[Colossians 1:13]].
* **A Structured Opposition:** By appearing alongside **principalities** `{{G746}}` and **powers** `{{G1849}}`, **kosmokrátōr** implies an organized, hierarchical system of spiritual wickedness that stands against believers.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2888}}` **kosmokrátōr** provides a specific and powerful label for the spiritual enemies of believers. Though used only once, its context in [[Ephesians 6:12]] is foundational, defining the spiritual battle as one against organized, authoritative **world-rulers** who operate in the **darkness** of this present age. It is a critical reminder that the true conflict is not with what is seen, but with the unseen spiritual forces that influence the world.
TRV