### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **oktaḗmeros**, represented by `{{G3637}}`, defines **an eight-day old person or act**. It is a highly specific term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its meaning is derived from the words for "eight" and "day," and its sole usage points to the rite of circumcision on **the eighth day**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{G3637}}` is in [[Philippians 3:5]], where the Apostle Paul recounts his religious heritage and credentials. He states he was "Circumcised **the eighth day**," immediately establishing his conformity to the covenant from birth. This detail is part of a list that includes his lineage from **Israel** `{{G2474}}`, the tribe of **Benjamin** `{{G958}}`, and his strict observance of the **law** `{{G3551}}` as a **Pharisee** `{{G5330}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in [[Philippians 3:5]] illuminate the significance of an act on "the eighth day":
* `{{G4061}}` **peritomḗ** (circumcision): This is the specific rite being performed. It is described as **circumcision** (the rite, the condition or the people, literally or figuratively).
* `{{G2474}}` **Israḗl** (Israel): Paul's action on the eighth day confirms his heritage as part of the stock of **Israel**, which is the adopted name of Jacob, including his descendants [[Philippians 3:5]].
* `{{G3551}}` **nómos** (law): This term refers to the **law** which prescribes the timing for the rite. Paul's mention of being a **Pharisee** `{{G5330}}` "as touching the **law**" reinforces that this observance was an act of legal piety [[Philippians 3:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3637}}` is tied directly to its context in Paul's argument about righteousness.
* **Covenant Identity:** Being circumcised on "the eighth day" was a primary sign of inclusion in the covenant with **Israel** `{{G2474}}`. Paul lists this first to establish his flawless Jewish identity [[Philippians 3:5]].
* **Adherence to the Law:** The term underscores a life of meticulous observance under the **law** `{{G3551}}`. For a **Pharisee** `{{G5330}}`, performing this rite at the exact prescribed time was a point of religious pride and credential [[Philippians 3:5]].
* **Heritage and Lineage:** This specific act is foundational to Paul's claim of being a "Hebrew of the Hebrews" `{{G1445}}`. It connects his physical body to the history, lineage, and religious obligations of his people from the tribe of **Benjamin** `{{G958}}` [[Philippians 3:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3637}}` is a precise term whose single use is pivotal. It encapsulates the concept of covenant initiation according to the **law** `{{G3551}}`. For Paul, being circumcised on **the eighth day** was a key part of a religious resume he once valued. The word provides a concise and powerful marker of Jewish covenant identity within the biblical narrative.
TRV