from οἶκος; properly, residence (abstractly), but usually (concretely) an abode (literally or figuratively); by implication, a family (especially domestics):--home, house(-hold).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **oikía**, represented by `{{G3614}}`, defines a **house** or residence. Appearing **95 times** across **85 unique verses**, it primarily refers to a concrete abode but also extends figuratively to mean a family or household. The term captures the concept of a dwelling place, whether it is a physical building, a family unit, or a spiritual home.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3614}}` is central to several key teachings. Jesus uses it in the parable of the two builders to contrast a life built on his words with one that is not; the wise man builds his **house** on a rock, which withstands the storm [[Matthew 7:24-25]], while the foolish man's **house** built on sand falls with a great crash [[Matthew 7:26-27]]. The word also signifies a family unit, as seen when an official's entire **house** believed in Jesus [[John 4:53]]. Figuratively, it points to a spiritual or eternal dwelling, such as the "Father's **house**" where Jesus prepares a place for believers [[John 14:2]], and the "earthly **house**" of the body, which is contrasted with an eternal **house** in the heavens [[2 Corinthians 5:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand on the meaning of a house as both a structure and a community:
* `{{G3624}}` **oîkos** (house): The root of oikía, this word also denotes a dwelling or family, used when Jesus instructs his disciples to offer peace to a **house** they enter [[Luke 10:5]].
* `{{G3617}}` **oikodespótēs** (master of the house): This refers to the head of a family, like the **goodman of the house** who, had he known when the thief was coming, would have kept watch [[Matthew 24:43]].
* `{{G3618}}` **oikodoméō** (to build): This verb is used for the physical act of construction, such as when the foolish man **built** his house upon the sand [[Matthew 7:26]].
* `{{G3619}}` **oikodomḗ** (building): This noun refers to a structure and is used to describe the eternal **building** from God that awaits believers in heaven [[2 Corinthians 5:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3614}}` is conveyed through its rich metaphorical applications for the spiritual life.
* **The Foundation of Life:** The parables of the builders use a **house** to represent a person's life, emphasizing that only a life built on the rock of Christ's teachings can endure judgment [[Matthew 7:24]]. A **house** without this foundation is destined for ruin [[Luke 6:49]].
* **The Household of Faith:** The concept of a **house** is used to describe the community of believers. A **house** divided against itself cannot stand, illustrating the need for unity within the kingdom of God [[Matthew 12:25]]. Paul uses the analogy of a "great **house**" to represent the church, which contains different kinds of vessels [[2 Timothy 2:20]].
* **The Believer's Eternal Hope:** Scripture uses `{{G3614}}` to give a tangible picture of eternity. Jesus comforts his disciples with the promise of His "Father's **house**" [[John 14:2]], and Paul reminds believers that their temporary "earthly **house**" will be replaced by an eternal one from God [[2 Corinthians 5:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3614}}` is a multifaceted term that signifies much more than a physical structure. It serves as a powerful biblical symbol for a person's life, the family unit, the church community, and the believer's promised eternal home. From a simple dwelling to the mansions of the Father's **house**, oikía connects the tangible to the spiritual, illustrating core truths about faith, community, and eternal hope.
TRV