### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kýrios**, represented by `{{G2962}}`, is a foundational term signifying one who is supreme in authority. It appears 748 times in 687 unique verses, highlighting its prominence in the New Testament. Its meaning ranges from a respectful address like "Sir" or a designation for a human "master," to its most significant use as a title for God and Jesus Christ as the supreme controller.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2962}}` is used in various contexts to denote authority. It can be a simple, respectful title, as when John addresses the elder in his vision as "Sir" [[Revelation 7:14]]. It also describes a human master in relation to a servant, as in the principle that "No man can serve two masters" [[Matthew 6:24]]. More profoundly, it is used for God the Father, who is addressed as "Lord of heaven and earth" [[Matthew 11:25]]. Its most frequent application is to Jesus Christ, where belief in the "Lord Jesus Christ" is essential for salvation [[Acts 16:31]] and public confession of Him as "Lord" is a mark of faith [[Romans 10:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the scope of authority and lordship:
* `{{G1203}}` **despótēs** (an absolute ruler): This term signifies an absolute master, used for God as the ultimate sovereign [[Jude 1:4]] and for human masters in the context of household authority [[1 Timothy 6:1]].
* `{{G1401}}` **doûlos** (a slave): As the direct counterpart to a master, this word describes a servant or slave. The relationship is contrasted in [[John 15:15]], where Jesus explains He no longer calls His followers `servants` because they know what their `lord` is doing.
* `{{G2316}}` **theós** (a deity): This word for God is often paired with `kýrios` to form the definitive title "the Lord thy God," emphasizing both divine nature and supreme authority [[Matthew 4:10]].
* `{{G3841}}` **pantokrátōr** (the all-ruling): Often translated "Almighty," this word is used with `kýrios` to express God's absolute and universal sovereignty, as in the title "Lord God Almighty" [[Revelation 15:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2962}}` is immense, defining God's nature and the believer's position.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The title establishes God's absolute authority over all creation. He is "Lord of heaven and earth" [[Acts 17:24]] and the one for whose pleasure "all things are and were created" [[Revelation 4:11]]. This sovereignty extends over all areas of life, as He is the "Lord of the harvest" [[Luke 10:2]].
* **The Lordship of Christ:** The New Testament centers on the identity of Jesus as `Lord`. Salvation comes through faith in the "Lord Jesus Christ" [[Acts 16:31]]. The believer's life is to be lived "in the Lord" [[Ephesians 5:8]], with all work done "heartily, as to the Lord" [[Colossians 3:23]]. Strength for the Christian walk is found "in the Lord, and in the power of his might" [[Ephesians 6:10]].
* **A Relational Authority:** `Kýrios` is not merely a title of power but also of relationship. Believers can boldly say, "The Lord is my helper" [[Hebrews 13:6]]. This relationship calls for total devotion, to "love the Lord thy God with all thy heart" [[Luke 10:27]], and results in a life of joy and peace through "our Lord Jesus Christ" [[Romans 5:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2962}}` transcends its simple definition of "master" or "Sir." It functions as a cornerstone of New Testament theology, establishing the absolute sovereignty of God the Father and the deity and authority of Jesus Christ. The term defines the very essence of the believer's relationship to God: one of submission, trust, and worship toward the one who is the rightful `Lord` over all.
TRV