### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **xýlinos**, represented by `{{G3585}}`, is an adjective meaning **wooden** or "of wood." Derived from ξύλον, it appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, where it describes objects made from this common material.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The uses of `{{G3585}}` appear in two distinct contexts. In Revelation, it is part of a list of materials used to make **idols** `{{G1497}}` that people continued to **worship** `{{G4352}}` despite facing divine **plagues** `{{G4127}}`. The passage highlights the powerlessness of these objects, which are described as unable to see, hear, or walk [[Revelation 9:20]]. In 2 Timothy, the word is used in an analogy about a **great** `{{G3173}}` **house** `{{G3614}}` containing various **vessels** `{{G4632}}`. It notes that such a house has vessels not only of gold and silver but also **of wood** and of earth, with some intended for **honour** `{{G5092}}` and others for **dishonour** `{{G819}}` [[2 Timothy 2:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and application of `{{G3585}}`:
* `{{G5552}}` **chrýseos** (made of gold): In both occurrences, this word for "golden" is used in contrast to **xýlinos**, representing items of higher value, whether as idols or as vessels for honour ([[Revelation 9:20]], [[2 Timothy 2:20]]).
* `{{G3749}}` **ostrákinos** (earthen-ware): This term is paired with **xýlinos** in [[2 Timothy 2:20]] to describe vessels of a common, frail, and less-valued nature, as opposed to those of precious metals.
* `{{G4632}}` **skeûos** (vessel): This is the noun modified by **xýlinos** in the analogy of the great house, referring to an implement or piece of equipment with a specific function [[2 Timothy 2:20]].
* `{{G1497}}` **eídōlon** (idol): In Revelation, the items described as **wooden** are explicitly identified as idols, or images for worship, created by human **hands** `{{G5495}}` [[Revelation 9:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G3585}}` stems from its specific applications:
* **The Futility of Idolatry:** Revelation uses **wooden** objects to exemplify the foolishness of idolatry. These man-made items are presented as part of the **works** `{{G2041}}` of human hands that are lifeless and powerless, yet they receive worship from unrepentant men [[Revelation 9:20]].
* **Metaphor for Purpose and Sanctity:** The analogy in 2 Timothy uses **wooden** vessels to illustrate that within God's household, there are individuals with different roles. The existence of vessels for both **honour** `{{G5092}}` and **dishonour** `{{G819}}` serves as a metaphor for purity and usefulness in service to God [[2 Timothy 2:20]].
* **A Symbol of the Common:** In both verses, **xýlinos** denotes a material of lesser value when compared to gold `{{G5552}}` and silver `{{G693}}`. This contrast between the common and the precious is used to teach about spiritual value, whether in the context of false worship or sanctified purpose within the church.
### Summary
In summary, while **xýlinos** `{{G3585}}` is rare, its usage is significant. It functions as a descriptor for what is common, earthly, and of lower material value. Through its use, scripture illustrates the lifelessness of idols and draws a powerful analogy about the diverse roles and states of purity found among vessels within the great house of God.
TRV