from ὅς and ποῖος; of what kind that, i.e. how (as) great (excellent) (specially, as an indefinite correlative to the definite antecedent τοιοῦτος of quality):--what manner (sort) of, such as whatsoever.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hopoîos**, represented by `{{G3697}}`, is a term used to describe quality, asking or stating "**what manner**" or "**what sort**" of thing something is. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses**. The word functions as an indefinite correlative, often relating to a definite antecedent of quality, essentially clarifying the nature or character of a person, action, or thing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3697}}` is used to specify the nature or quality of something. For instance, it is used to describe the ultimate test of a believer's **work**, which will be tried by fire to show "**of what sort** it is" [[1 Corinthians 3:13]]. In a different context, James uses it to illustrate forgetfulness, describing a man who beholds himself and then forgets "**what manner of man** he was" [[James 1:24]]. The word also characterizes the impact of ministry, as the Thessalonians **shew**... **what manner** of entering in the apostles had among them [[1 Thessalonians 1:9]]. It can also be used dismissively, as when Paul states that "**whatsoever**" the other apostles were in person makes no difference, as God does not accept a man's person [[Galatians 2:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the function of `{{G3697}}`:
* `{{G5108}}` **toioûtos** (such): This word is the direct correlative to `{{G3697}}`. It points to a specific, definite quality. Paul uses them together, wishing his hearers would become "**such** `{{G5108}}` **as** `{{G3697}}` I am" [[Acts 26:29]].
* `{{G1381}}` **dokimázō** (to test, approve): This word describes the process of discerning the quality of something. Fire will **try** `{{G1381}}` every man's work to reveal **of what sort** `{{G3697}}` it is [[1 Corinthians 3:13]].
* `{{G1950}}` **epilanthánomai** (to forget): This is linked to self-perception. In James, a person who fails to act on the word of God immediately **forgetteth** `{{G1950}}` **what manner of man** `{{G3697}}` he was [[James 1:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3697}}` lies in its focus on the true quality and nature of spiritual realities.
* **The Character of Conversion:** The word highlights that a genuine **entering in** `{{G1529}}` of the gospel is defined by its transformative quality. This is seen when people **turn** `{{G1994}}` from idols to **serve** `{{G1398}}` the **living** `{{G2198}}` and **true** `{{G228}}` God [[1 Thessalonians 1:9]].
* **The Standard of Judgment:** Divine judgment is concerned with the essence of one's **work** `{{G2041}}`. God will not only assess the deed itself, but will **try** `{{G1381}}` it by **fire** `{{G4442}}` to **declare** `{{G1213}}` "**of what sort**" it truly is, revealing its underlying substance [[1 Corinthians 3:13]].
* **Spiritual Self-Awareness:** The term is used to challenge believers to remember their identity. A hearer who is not a doer quickly **forgetteth** `{{G1950}}` "**what manner of man** he was," pointing to the importance of living in accordance with one's new nature [[James 1:24]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3697}}` **hopoîos** is more than an interrogative word; it is a lens for evaluating the true nature of things. It forces a consideration of quality over mere appearance or action. Whether assessing the impact of an "entering in" [[1 Thessalonians 1:9]], the substance of a man's work at the judgment [[1 Corinthians 3:13]], or the identity of a believer [[James 1:24]], this word consistently points to the character and quality that God sees and will ultimately reveal.
TRV