### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Nikolaḯtēs**, represented by `{{G3531}}`, refers to an adherent of Nicolaüs. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible, making its mentions rare but significant. The term is used to identify a specific group whose influence was a concern in the early church.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{G3531}}` is associated with practices and beliefs that are strongly condemned. The church in Ephesus is commended because they **hate** the **deeds** `{{G2041}}` of the Nicolaitans, actions which God also **hates** [[Revelation 2:6]]. Conversely, the church in Pergamos is rebuked for having among them those who **hold** `{{G2902}}` the **doctrine** `{{G1322}}` of the Nicolaitans, a thing which God **hates** [[Revelation 2:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context surrounding the Nicolaitans:
* `{{G2041}}` **érgon** (deed, doing, labour, work): This refers to an act or toil. The "deeds of the Nicolaitans" are explicitly hated by God [[Revelation 2:6]]. The term can refer to both good works ordained by God [[Ephesians 2:10]] and the manifest works of the flesh [[Galatians 5:19]].
* `{{G1322}}` **didachḗ** (doctrine, instruction): This term signifies instruction, either the act or the matter being taught. While it can refer to sound apostolic teaching [[Acts 2:42]], in the case of the Nicolaitans, their **doctrine** is something to be rejected [[Revelation 2:15]].
* `{{G3404}}` **miséō** (to detest, hate): This word expresses a strong aversion. It is used in both of the primary occurrences to describe God's feeling toward the deeds and doctrine of the Nicolaitans, establishing them as being in direct opposition to the divine will ([[Revelation 2:6]], [[Revelation 2:15]]).
* `{{G2902}}` **kratéō** (to use strength, i.e. seize or retain): This word means to hold fast or retain. The church in Pergamos is criticized for having people who **hold** the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, indicating a persistent adherence to this condemned teaching [[Revelation 2:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3531}}` is found in its role as a clear warning against spiritual corruption.
* **Condemnation of both Action and Belief:** The Nicolaitans are condemned for their **deeds** `{{G2041}}` and their **doctrine** `{{G1322}}`, demonstrating that God judges both unrighteous behavior and false teaching ([[Revelation 2:6]], [[Revelation 2:15]]).
* **Divine Hatred as a Standard:** The repeated declaration that God **hates** `{{G3404}}` their ways serves as an unambiguous standard of what is unholy and unacceptable to Him.
* **A Call for Church Purity:** The mention of the Nicolaitans functions as a direct admonition to the churches. Believers are praised for rejecting these teachings but rebuked for tolerating or holding `{{G2902}}` them, emphasizing the need for doctrinal and practical purity within the church.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3531}}` **Nikolaḯtēs** identifies adherents of a group whose deeds and doctrines are explicitly contrary to God's will. Though mentioned only twice, the term serves as a powerful biblical example of teachings and practices that the church must recognize and reject. It underscores the critical importance of aligning both belief and behavior with the standards established by God.
TRV