probably from the base of κομίζω; orderly arrangement, i.e. decoration; by implication, the world (in a wide or narrow sense, including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively (morally)):--adorning, world.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kósmos**, represented by `{{G2889}}`, literally means an **orderly arrangement** or **decoration**, but by implication it most often refers to the **world**. It appears 187 times in 152 unique verses. The term is used in a wide sense to describe the physical creation, its inhabitants, and a moral system that is often in opposition to God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2889}}` is used in several distinct ways. It can refer to the created order, as God is the one who "made the **world** and all things therein" [[Acts 17:24]]. The phrase "foundation of the **world**" appears repeatedly, establishing a clear beginning point for creation ([[Ephesians 1:4]], [[Revelation 13:8]]). It also frequently refers to humanity, as seen in God's love for the **world** [[John 3:16]] and Christ's role as the "light of the **world**" [[John 8:12]]. However, `{{G2889}}` is also used to describe a system of values and principles hostile to God. Believers are commanded not to love this **world** [[1 John 2:15]], because friendship with the **world** is enmity with God [[James 4:4]]. This system has a "prince" [[John 14:30]] and is characterized by lust and pride [[1 John 2:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the different facets of `{{G2889}}`:
* `{{G1093}}` **gē**: This word refers to the **earth**, land, or soil. While **kósmos** can encompass the entire created order or its system of values, **gē** often specifies the physical planet upon which humanity dwells [[Revelation 13:8]].
* `{{G165}}` **aiṓn**: Translated as an **age** or **course**, this term can also mean **world**. It often describes a period of time or the spirit of that period, as in "the course of this **world**," which is influenced by the "prince of the power of the air" [[Ephesians 2:2]].
* `{{G4747}}` **stoicheîon**: This refers to a fundamental **element**, principle, or **rudiment**. It is used in connection with **kósmos** to describe the basic, elementary principles of the fallen world's system, which are contrasted with the fullness found in Christ [[Colossians 2:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological importance of `{{G2889}}` is profound, illustrating a central tension in scripture.
* **A Created Order:** The term affirms the goodness of the physical creation, which was made by God [[Acts 17:24]] and has existed since its foundation [[Matthew 13:35]].
* **Object of Divine Love:** Despite its fallen state, the **world** is the object of God's redemptive love. God sent His Son into the **world** not to condemn it, but that the **world** through him might be saved [[John 3:17]]. Jesus is the "Saviour of the **world**" [[1 John 4:14]].
* **A Hostile System:** The **world** also represents a spiritual system of rebellion against God, characterized by its own wisdom [[1 Corinthians 3:19]], lusts [[1 John 2:17]], and sorrows that lead to death [[2 Corinthians 7:10]]. Believers are called to be in the **world** but not of it.
* **The Realm to Overcome:** Christ declared that He has overcome the **world** [[John 16:33]]. For believers, faith is the victory that overcomes the **world** [[1 John 5:4]], demonstrating that allegiance to God triumphs over the pressures and temptations of the worldly system.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2889}}` is a complex term that moves from the physical universe to the whole of humanity, and finally to an antagonistic moral order. It is the stage upon which God's redemptive plan unfolds—a creation He made, a people He loves, and a fallen system He has overcome through Jesus Christ. The use of **kósmos** encapsulates the biblical narrative of a good creation, a fallen humanity, and the divine rescue mission to save it.
TRV