probably akin to ὁ, ὅς, and ὅσος; such or what sort of (as a correlation or exclamation); especially the neuter (adverbially) with negative, not so:--so (as), such as, what (manner of), which.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hoîos**, represented by `{{G3634}}`, is a correlative or exclamatory term used to define **what sort of** or **such as**. It appears **15 times** across **12 unique verses** in the Bible. Its primary function is to describe the quality, nature, or character of a person, event, or object, often by way of comparison or to emphasize its unique kind.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3634}}` is used to establish a standard or to describe an unparalleled quality. For example, Paul uses it to remind the Thessalonians of "what manner of men" the apostles were among them, linking their character to the power of the gospel [[1 Thessalonians 1:5]]. Jesus uses it to rebuke his disciples, stating they do not know "what manner of spirit" they are of [[Luke 9:55]]. The word also expresses unprecedented magnitude, describing a future tribulation "such as was not since the beginning of the world" [[Matthew 24:21]] and an earthquake "such as was not since men were upon the earth" [[Revelation 16:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide further context for comparison and quality:
* `{{G5108}}` **toioûtos** (of this sort): This word often works in tandem with `{{G3634}}` to complete a comparison. For instance, it establishes the principle of correspondence: "as is the heavenly, **such** are they also that are heavenly" [[1 Corinthians 15:48]].
* `{{G1096}}` **gínomai** (to become, come into being): This verb frequently sets the stage for `{{G3634}}`, describing the state that something has entered. It is used to describe Christ's raiment which **became** shining [[Mark 9:3]] and the persecutions that **came** to Paul [[2 Timothy 3:11]].
* `{{G5082}}` **tēlikoûtos** (so vast): This adjective emphasizes figurative or literal magnitude. It is used alongside `{{G3634}}` to stress the immensity of the final earthquake, describing it as "**so mighty**" [[Revelation 16:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3634}}` is found in its ability to draw critical distinctions and comparisons.
* **Standard of Conduct:** The term establishes a benchmark for Christian character and ministry. Paul's reference to "what manner of men we were" is not a boast, but a demonstration of a life consistent with the gospel's power and assurance [[1 Thessalonians 1:5]].
* **Uniqueness of Divine Events:** By describing eschatological events like the great tribulation [[Matthew 24:21]] and the final earthquake [[Revelation 16:18]] with `{{G3634}}`, scripture emphasizes their singular, unparalleled nature in human history. This points to the supreme power of God.
* **Principle of Correspondence:** In passages like [[1 Corinthians 15:48]], the word underpins the theological concept that a being's nature corresponds to its source. "**As** is the earthy `{{G5517}}`, **such** are they also that are earthy `{{G5517}}`," creating a direct parallel between Adam and humanity, and Christ and believers.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3634}}` is a crucial qualifier in the New Testament that goes beyond simple description. It is a word of comparison that defines the specific **kind** or **quality** of something, whether it be the character of a servant of God, the unmatched scale of a divine judgment, or the fundamental nature of humanity's relationship to its source. It forces the reader to consider the nature of things and evaluate them against a divine standard or an absolute example.
TRV