### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **oíkēma**, represented by `{{G3612}}`, defines a tenement or, more specifically, a **jail** or **prison**. Derived from the word οἰκέω (to dwell), it appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in scripture, denoting a place of physical confinement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G3612}}` is found in [[Acts 12:7]], which describes a literal place of incarceration. In this passage, an "angel of the Lord" appears to Peter while he is confined, and a light shines in the **prison**. This event highlights a moment of divine intervention, where God's power enters a human-made cell to orchestrate a miraculous escape. The word is used straightforwardly to establish the setting of Peter's imprisonment and subsequent release.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words provide a broader context to the scene described in [[Acts 12:7]]:
* `{{G3611}}` **oikéō**: The root word for **prison**, its definition is to "occupy a house, i.e. reside...dwell." It is used to describe the Spirit of God dwelling in believers ([[Romans 8:9]], [[1 Corinthians 3:16]]).
* `{{G32}}` **ángelos**: Defined as "a messenger; especially an 'angel'," this word appears directly alongside `{{G3612}}` in the phrase "the **angel** of the Lord" [[Acts 12:7]]. Angels are seen throughout scripture as messengers of God, often involved in moments of divine revelation or action.
* `{{G2962}}` **kýrios**: Meaning "supreme in authority...Lord, master," this title emphasizes the divine authority behind the angel's actions. The event in the prison is an act of the **Lord**, demonstrating his sovereignty over earthly powers [[Acts 12:7]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{G3612}}` itself is not a deeply theological term, its single appearance illustrates significant themes:
* **Divine Deliverance:** The appearance of the angel of the Lord `{{G32}}` `{{G2962}}` in the **prison** `{{G3612}}` serves as a clear example of God's power to rescue his servants from physical bondage and opposition [[Acts 12:7]].
* **Contrasting Dwellings:** The root word `{{G3611}}` (oikéō) is used to describe God's Spirit dwelling within a believer [[Romans 8:11]], creating a powerful contrast. While `{{G3612}}` signifies an external place of confinement, its root points to the believer's body as a place of divine habitation.
* **Sovereignty Over Confinement:** The story demonstrates that no physical barrier, not even a **prison** `{{G3612}}`, can hinder the purpose of the **Lord** `{{G2962}}`. His authority is shown to be absolute, capable of intervening in any human circumstance.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3612}}` is a specific and rare term for **prison**. Its literal meaning is confined to its single use in the narrative of Peter's miraculous escape in [[Acts 12:7]]. However, when viewed with its related terms—`{{G3611}}` (dwell), `{{G32}}` (angel), and `{{G2962}}` (Lord)—it contributes to a powerful biblical account of God's supreme authority and his ability to deliver his people from captivity.
TRV