### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **nîkos**, represented by `{{G3534}}`, signifies **a conquest** or, by implication, **triumph** and **victory**. It is a focused term, appearing only **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, primarily dealing with ultimate, decisive triumph. Its core meaning revolves around the concept of overcoming a final obstacle or enemy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G3534}}` is powerfully associated with eschatological triumph. In Matthew, it is foretold that Christ will "send forth judgment unto **victory**" [[Matthew 12:20]], establishing the certainty of his righteous reign. The most concentrated use appears in 1 Corinthians, where it describes the final defeat of death. The scripture states that "Death is swallowed up in **victory**" [[1 Corinthians 15:54]], a theme reinforced by the rhetorical question to the grave, "where is thy **victory**?" [[1 Corinthians 15:55]]. This triumph is not a human achievement but a gift from God through Jesus Christ [[1 Corinthians 15:57]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the nature of this victory:
* `{{G2666}}` **katapínō** (to drink down, i.e. gulp entire...:--devour, drown, swallow (up)): This word describes the totality of death's defeat, as it is completely "swallowed up" in victory [[1 Corinthians 15:54]].
* `{{G2759}}` **kéntron** (a point... i.e. a sting... or goad...:--prick, sting): This term is used to personify the power of death, which is rendered ineffective by Christ's triumph. The question, "O death, where is thy **sting**?" [[1 Corinthians 15:55]] is asked in light of the coming victory.
* `{{G1325}}` **dídōmi** (to give...): This word clarifies the source of the triumph. The victory over death is not earned but is something God **giveth** to believers [[1 Corinthians 15:57]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3534}}` is centered on the finality of Christ's work.
* **Victory Over Death:** The term is primarily used to declare God's absolute triumph over the last enemy, death. This victory is realized when the mortal puts on immortality `{{G110}}` and incorruption `{{G861}}`, as described in [[1 Corinthians 15:54]].
* **A Gift of Grace:** The victory is explicitly a gift. Believers give thanks `{{G5485}}` to God who "giveth us the **victory**" [[1 Corinthians 15:57]]. This emphasizes that salvation and eternal life are results of divine grace, not human effort.
* **The Triumph of Judgment:** The use of `{{G3534}}` in Matthew shows that God's ultimate judgment `{{G2920}}` does not end in a stalemate but in a decisive and complete victory, ensuring the establishment of righteousness [[Matthew 12:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3534}}` is a term of ultimate assurance in the New Testament. It moves beyond the idea of a simple battle or conquest to define the absolute and final triumph of God's plan. It speaks specifically to the defeat of death through the resurrection and frames this event as a gracious gift given to believers through the work of Jesus Christ.
TRV