### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hólōs**, represented by `{{G3654}}`, is an adverb meaning completely or altogether. Derived from ὅλος, it is used to express totality, as in "utterly," "commonly," or in negative contexts, "not by any means" or "at all." It appears only **4 times** in **4 unique verses**, making each of its uses significant for emphasis.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3654}}` serves to intensify the meaning of a statement. In Matthew's gospel, Jesus uses it to issue an absolute prohibition, commanding his followers, "**Swear** `{{G3660}}` not **at all**" [[Matthew 5:34]]. Paul uses it to describe the scandalous nature of sin in the Corinthian church, noting that a type of **fornication** `{{G4202}}` was **commonly** `{{G3654}}` reported among them [[1 Corinthians 5:1]]. He again uses it to describe the lawsuits among believers as **utterly** `{{G3654}}` a **fault** `{{G2275}}` [[1 Corinthians 6:7]]. Finally, it is used to pose a critical question about the resurrection, asking why people are **baptized** `{{G907}}` for the **dead** `{{G3498}}` if the dead do not **rise** `{{G1453}}` **at all** [[1 Corinthians 15:29]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{G3654}}` appears:
* `{{G3660}}` **omnýō** (to swear, i.e. take (or declare on) oath): This word is the subject of the absolute prohibition in which **hólōs** is used. Jesus commands, "**Swear** not **at all**" [[Matthew 5:34]].
* `{{G4202}}` **porneía** (harlotry (including adultery and incest); figuratively, idolatry): The presence of this sin was **commonly** reported in Corinth. Believers are instructed to mortify their earthly members, including **fornication** [[Colossians 3:5]].
* `{{G2275}}` **hḗttēma** (a deterioration, i.e. (objectively) failure or (subjectively) loss): This describes the state of the Corinthian believers who took each other to court, which Paul calls **utterly** a **fault** [[1 Corinthians 6:7]].
* `{{G1453}}` **egeírō** (to waken, i.e. rouse): The use of **hólōs** questions the point of certain practices if the dead do not **rise** at all. The word is central to the Christian hope, as in the call to "**Awake** thou that sleepest, and **arise** from the **dead**" [[Ephesians 5:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3654}}` lies in its power to create absolute statements, removing any room for exception or degree.
* **Ethical Absolutes:** In prohibiting oaths **at all**, Jesus uses the word to elevate the standard of speech for His followers to one of simple, unadorned truthfulness, making oaths entirely unnecessary [[Matthew 5:34]].
* **Total Failure:** Paul’s use of **hólōs** emphasizes the complete spiritual defeat represented by believers suing one another. It is not just a mistake but **utterly** a **fault**, a total contradiction of their calling [[1 Corinthians 6:7]].
* **Doctrinal Foundation:** The word is used to frame a foundational question about the resurrection. If the dead do not **rise** **at all**, a core tenet of the faith is nullified, rendering related practices meaningless [[1 Corinthians 15:29]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3654}}` is a potent adverb that, despite its infrequent use, plays a crucial role in shaping the meaning of key passages. It functions as an intensifier, establishing the absolute and complete nature of a command, a condition, or a doctrinal premise. Whether translated as "at all," "commonly," or "utterly," **hólōs** leaves no doubt as to the comprehensive scope of the statement it modifies.
TRV