### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **laós**, represented by `{{G2992}}`, translates to **people**. It appears 143 times across 139 unique verses. Its definition, "a people (in general)," distinguishes it from δῆμος, which refers to one's own populace. In scripture, `{{G2992}}` is used to denote a unified group, often in a covenantal or national sense.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G2992}}` defines the special relationship between God and those He has chosen. God refers to Israel as "my **people**" [[Matthew 2:6]], a community He promises to govern and protect. This covenant relationship is a recurring theme, with God declaring, "they shall be to me a **people**" [[Hebrews 8:10]]. The term is central to the mission of Jesus, who came to "save his **people** from their sins" [[Matthew 1:21]]. It is also used to describe those who are set apart, as in a "peculiar **people**, zealous of good works" [[Titus 2:14]]. Conversely, it can describe a group in rebellion or with hardened hearts, such as the **people** who honor God with their lips while their hearts are far from him [[Mark 7:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the scope of `{{G2992}}`:
* `{{G1484}}` **éthnos** (nation, Gentile): Often used alongside `laós`, this term typically refers to non-Jewish nations or Gentiles. Their combined usage, as in "every kindred, and tongue, and **people**, and nation" [[Revelation 5:9]], illustrates the universal scope of God's redemptive plan.
* `{{G3793}}` **óchlos** (multitude, throng): This term describes a general crowd or throng of individuals, whereas `laós` implies a more structured community or corporate body. [[Revelation 7:9]] describes a great **multitude** (óchlos) composed of all nations, kindreds, and **people** (laós).
* `{{G2474}}` **Israḗl** (Israel): This is the primary group identified as God's **people** (laós) throughout the scriptures, as seen in the phrase "my **people** Israel" [[Matthew 2:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G2992}}` is profound, defining the very nature of God's chosen community.
* **Covenant Relationship:** The word is foundational to the covenant promise where God declares, "I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a **people**" [[Hebrews 8:10]]. This establishes a unique and binding relationship.
* **Redemption and Purpose:** God's **people** are the object of His redemptive work. Jesus gave himself to "purify unto himself a peculiar **people**" [[Titus 2:14]]. This community is sanctified by the blood of Christ [[Hebrews 13:12]].
* **An Expanded Identity:** The application of `laós` is expanded beyond ethnic Israel. Those who "in time past were not a **people**" are now "the **people** of God," having obtained mercy [[1 Peter 2:10]]. This shows the inclusion of believers from all nations into this special status.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2992}}` is a term rich with theological meaning. It moves beyond a simple definition of a group of individuals to describe a unified body in a covenant relationship with God. From its primary identification with the nation of Israel to its ultimate expansion to include all who are redeemed by Christ, `laós` is a key concept for understanding salvation, community, and divine purpose in the Bible.
TRV