### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **oikodomía**, represented by `{{G3620}}`, means **edifying** or confirmation. It appears only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible, indicating a highly specific theological application. Its meaning is derived from the concept of building up, in this case, for a spiritual purpose.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole scriptural appearance, `{{G3620}}` is presented as the constructive goal of faith, set in direct opposition to spiritually unproductive activities. Paul instructs Timothy not to **give heed** `{{G4337}}` to "fables and endless genealogies." These distractions are said to **minister** `{{G3930}}` **questions** `{{G2214}}` rather than the "godly **edifying** which is in faith" [[1 Timothy 1:4]]. This context establishes that true edification is not about speculative debate but is instead sourced from **God** `{{G2316}}` and operates within the realm of **faith** `{{G4102}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its biblical context clarify the meaning of **oikodomía**:
* `{{G2214}}` **zḗtēsis** (a searching (properly, the act), i.e. a dispute or its theme:--question): This term represents the direct opposite of edifying. While `{{G3620}}` builds up, **zḗtēsis** leads to disputes and is described elsewhere as "foolish and unlearned" [[2 Timothy 2:23]].
* `{{G2316}}` **theós** (a deity, especially (with ὁ) the supreme Divinity): The edifying in view is explicitly qualified as "godly," linking the process of spiritual building directly to the nature and purpose of **God**.
* `{{G4102}}` **pístis** (persuasion, i.e. credence... reliance upon Christ for salvation... the system of religious (Gospel) truth itself): This shows that godly **edifying** `{{G3620}}` is not a general self-improvement but is foundationally rooted in **faith**.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3620}}` is concentrated in its single usage, which highlights a core principle of practical ministry.
* **Purpose over Speculation:** The term is used to draw a sharp line between activities that build up the believer and those that only create "questions" and disputes [[1 Timothy 1:4]].
* **Divine Origin:** The edification is specifically "godly," meaning it originates from and is directed toward God, as opposed to human-centric philosophies or endless genealogies.
* **Foundation in Faith:** True spiritual development, or **edifying**, is inseparable from **faith** `{{G4102}}`. It is the outcome of a life grounded in persuasion and reliance upon God, not intellectual curiosity.
### Summary
In summary, **oikodomía** `{{G3620}}` is a focused term for constructive spiritual growth. Its single appearance in scripture defines it by what it is—a "godly" work that exists "in faith"—and by what it is not—a source of divisive "questions." It champions the importance of building believers up in solid truth rather than engaging in fruitless and distracting debates.
TRV