### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **oikéō**, represented by `{{G3611}}`, is a term for **to dwell** or **reside**. It appears **9 times** across **9 unique verses** in the Bible. Based on the root word for "house," its definition is to occupy a house, but it is often used figuratively to mean inhabit, remain, or inhere, and by implication, to cohabit.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3611}}` is used in two primary contexts: the theological concept of indwelling and the practical matter of cohabitation. The apostle Paul uses it to describe the **Spirit** `{{G4151}}` of God who **dwells** in believers, making their bodies a **temple** `{{G3485}}` ([[1 Corinthians 3:16]], [[Romans 8:9]]). This indwelling is presented as the guarantee of future resurrection life [[Romans 8:11]]. In a contrasting use, Paul also describes sin as a force that **dwelleth** in his flesh, creating an internal struggle ([[Romans 7:17]], [[Romans 7:20]]). In a different context, the term is used for the marital relationship, where spouses are encouraged to **dwell** with one another if they are pleased to do so [[1 Corinthians 7:12-13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of dwelling and residence:
* `{{G1774}}` **enoikéō** (to inhabit (figuratively):--dwell in): This is a very similar term, often used to describe the indwelling of the Holy Ghost or the word of Christ in believers ([[2 Timothy 1:14]], [[Colossians 3:16]]).
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (a current of air... a spirit... the Holy Spirit): This word identifies the divine person who **dwells** in the believer. The presence of the Spirit of God is what defines the indwelling [[Romans 8:9]].
* `{{G3485}}` **naós** (a fane, shrine, temple): This describes the location of the indwelling. Believers are the **temple** of God precisely because the Spirit **dwelleth** in them [[1 Corinthians 3:16]].
* `{{G4909}}` **syneudokéō** (to think well of in common... assent to, be pleased, have pleasure): This term qualifies the act of cohabitation in marriage, indicating that spouses should **dwell** together by mutual consent [[1 Corinthians 7:12-13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3611}}` is immense, particularly concerning the Christian life.
* **The Indwelling Spirit:** The concept is central to a believer's identity in Christ. The Spirit of God **dwelling** in a person signifies a new relationship with **God** `{{G2316}}` and is the source of spiritual life ([[Romans 8:9]], [[Romans 8:11]]).
* **The Believer as a Temple:** Because the Spirit **dwelleth** in them, believers are described as the **temple** `{{G3485}}` of God, a sacred space for God's presence [[1 Corinthians 3:16]].
* **The Reality of Indwelling Sin:** The term is also used to articulate the ongoing struggle with the flesh. Paul explains that "in my flesh, **dwelleth** no good thing," highlighting the conflict between the new creation and the old nature [[Romans 7:18]].
* **The Transcendence of God:** In contrast to the intimate indwelling of the Spirit, the word is also used to describe God's majestic otherness, **dwelling** in a light which no man can approach [[1 Timothy 6:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3611}}` is far more than a simple term for living in a place. It is a cornerstone of New Testament theology, defining the profound reality of the Spirit's presence in a believer's life, the ongoing battle with sin, and the nature of God's transcendence. It illustrates how a single word can convey both practical instruction for human relationships and the deepest truths of the relationship between God and humanity.
TRV