### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Νικόδημος (Nikódēmos)**, represented by `{{G3530}}`, means "victorious among his people." It appears **5 times** in **5 unique verses** and refers specifically to Nicodemus, an Israelite. Scripture introduces him as a **man** `{{G444}}` of the **Pharisees** `{{G5330}}` and a **ruler** `{{G758}}` of the **Jews** `{{G2453}}` [[John 3:1]].
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, all appearances of `{{G3530}}` are in the Gospel of John. Nicodemus is first depicted coming to **Jesus** `{{G2424}}` by **night** `{{G3571}}` ([[John 7:50]], [[John 19:39]]). During this initial encounter, he struggles to understand the concept of being **born** `{{G1080}}` again, asking **how** `{{G4459}}` a man can be born when he is **old** `{{G1088}}` [[John 3:4]]. He later questions Jesus, "How can these things be?" [[John 3:9]]. In a later scene, he cautiously speaks up among his peers, identified as "he that came to Jesus by night, being one of them" [[John 7:50]]. His final appearance shows him bringing a costly **mixture** `{{G3395}}` of **myrrh** `{{G4666}}` and **aloes** `{{G250}}` of about an **hundred** `{{G1540}}` **pound** `{{G3046}}` weight to prepare Jesus' body for burial [[John 19:39]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the identity and actions of Nicodemus:
* `{{G5330}}` **Pharisaîos** (Pharisee): This identifies him as part of a prominent and exclusively religious Jewish sect [[John 3:1]]. The Pharisees were often portrayed as holding a rigid view of the law.
* `{{G758}}` **árchōn** (ruler): This word, meaning a first in rank or power, establishes Nicodemus as a person of significant authority among the Jews [[John 3:1]].
* `{{G3571}}` **nýx** (night): The repeated mention that Nicodemus came by **night** is a key detail of his story, highlighting the secrecy of his initial interactions with Jesus ([[John 7:50]], [[John 19:39]]).
* `{{G1080}}` **gennáō** (to be born): This word is central to the dialogue between Jesus and Nicodemus. His literal interpretation of being **born** a second time reveals his initial struggle with spiritual concepts [[John 3:4]].
### Theological Significance
The character of Nicodemus carries significant theological weight, illustrating a journey of faith.
* **From Secrecy to Boldness:** Nicodemus begins as a secret inquirer, approaching Jesus by **night** `{{G3571}}`, but his story culminates in a public act of devotion. By bringing a hundred-pound mixture of myrrh and aloes, he openly associates himself with Jesus after the crucifixion [[John 19:39]].
* **Spiritual Blindness to Understanding:** His initial questions, "How can a man be **born** when he is **old**?" [[John 3:4]] and "How can these things **be**?" [[John 3:9]], represent a literal-mindedness that cannot grasp spiritual truth. His journey shows a progression from this state.
* **Costly Devotion:** The act of bringing a **mixture** `{{G3395}}` of **myrrh** `{{G4666}}` and **aloes** `{{G250}}` was an extravagant gesture of respect and love, signifying a profound change in his commitment to Jesus [[John 19:39]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3530}}` **Nikódēmos** is not just a historical figure but a model of spiritual progression. He is introduced as a high-ranking **ruler** `{{G758}}` and **Pharisee** `{{G5330}}` who seeks Jesus under the cover of **night** `{{G3571}}`, confused by the call to be **born** `{{G1080}}` again ([[John 3:1]], [[John 3:4]]). His journey from a hesitant questioner to one who publicly and sacrificially honors Jesus demonstrates a faith that grows from intellectual curiosity into bold devotion.
TRV