### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **nóēma**, represented by `{{G3540}}`, refers to a perception, purpose, or the intellect itself. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses**. The term is used in scripture to denote a person's **mind** or **thought**, but it can also be translated as **device** when referring to a plan or scheme.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G3540}}` consistently appears in contexts concerning the state of the human mind in relation to spiritual forces. In 2 Corinthians, the apostle Paul uses the term multiple times to describe the intellect as a spiritual battleground. The "god of this world" has blinded the **minds** `{{G3540}}` of unbelievers [[2 Corinthians 4:4]], and Paul fears that the believers' **minds** `{{G3540}}` could be corrupted by the serpent's subtilty [[2 Corinthians 11:3]]. In a strategic sense, believers are warned not to be ignorant of Satan's **devices** `{{G3540}}` [[2 Corinthians 2:11]]. The ultimate goal for a believer is to bring every **thought** `{{G3540}}` into captivity to Christ [[2 Corinthians 10:5]], with the assurance that God's peace will keep their **minds** [[Philippians 4:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the function and vulnerability of the mind as described by `{{G3540}}`:
* `{{G5186}}` **typhlóō** (to make blind, i.e. (figuratively) to obscure:--blind): This verb describes the action taken against the **minds** `{{G3540}}` of unbelievers to prevent them from seeing the gospel's light [[2 Corinthians 4:4]].
* `{{G4456}}` **pōróō** (to petrify, i.e. (figuratively) to indurate (render stupid or callous):-- blind, harden): This term is used to describe how their **minds** `{{G3540}}` were blinded, preventing understanding until the veil is removed in Christ [[2 Corinthians 3:14]].
* `{{G50}}` **agnoéō** (not to know (through lack of information or intelligence); by implication, to ignore (through disinclination):--(be) ignorant(-ly), not know, not understand, unknown): Believers are called not to be **ignorant** of Satan's devices `{{G3540}}` [[2 Corinthians 2:11]].
* `{{G3563}}` **noûs** (the intellect, i.e. mind (divine or human; in thought, feeling, or will); by implication, meaning:--mind, understanding): This word for **understanding** is used alongside **minds** `{{G3540}}` to describe what the peace of God protects [[Philippians 4:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3540}}` is significant, emphasizing the mind's central role in faith and spiritual warfare.
* **The Mind as a Target:** The repeated use of `{{G3540}}` in connection with hostile spiritual influence establishes the mind as a primary target. It can be blinded by the "god of this world" [[2 Corinthians 4:4]], corrupted by subtilty [[2 Corinthians 11:3]], and hardened against the truth [[2 Corinthians 3:14]].
* **The Mandate for Mental Discipline:** Scripture commands believers to take an active role in governing their intellect. This is shown in the call to cast down imaginations and bring every **thought** `{{G3540}}` captive to the obedience of Christ [[2 Corinthians 10:5]].
* **Divine Protection of the Intellect:** While the mind is a target, it is also under divine protection. The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, acts as a guard for the hearts and **minds** `{{G3540}}` of those in Christ Jesus [[Philippians 4:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3540}}` moves beyond a simple definition of "thought" to portray the intellect as a critical domain for spiritual life. It is presented as vulnerable to satanic **devices** and spiritual blindness, yet it is also the faculty that must be actively disciplined and brought under Christ's authority. Its usage underscores that the battle for a person's soul is deeply connected to the state of their **mind**.
TRV