### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **palaiótēs**, represented by `{{G3821}}`, refers to **antiquatedness:--oldness.** It is derived from παλαιός. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire biblical text, yet its singular use carries significant theological weight.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G3821}}` is in [[Romans 7:6]], where it is used to draw a sharp contrast. The verse states that believers are "delivered from the law" in order to "serve in newness of spirit, and not in the **oldness** of the letter." Here, **oldness** describes a former way of being and serving that was tied to "the letter" `{{G1121}}`, or the law. It represents a state from which one has been released through death to what formerly held them captive.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help clarify the meaning of `{{G3821}}`:
* `{{G2538}}` **kainótēs** (newness): As the direct antonym in the passage, this word, meaning "renewal (figuratively)," highlights the new reality that replaces "oldness." Believers are called to walk in "newness of life" [[Romans 6:4]] and serve in "newness of spirit" [[Romans 7:6]].
* `{{G1121}}` **grámma** (letter): This word, meaning "a writing... letter, scripture," is what "oldness" is associated with. This connection is reinforced elsewhere, where "the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life" [[2 Corinthians 3:6]], distinguishing it from the life-giving nature of the Spirit.
* `{{G2673}}` **katargéō** (delivered): This term, which means "to be (render) entirely idle (useless)... abolish," describes the action that frees believers from the "oldness." In the same verse, believers are "delivered from the law" [[Romans 7:6]]. This same word is used to describe how the "body of sin might be destroyed" [[Romans 6:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G3821}}` is centered on the believer's transformation in Christ.
* **Deliverance from the Law:** The concept of "oldness" is intrinsically linked to the law from which believers are now delivered [[Romans 7:6]]. This freedom is not lawlessness, but a change in the principle of one's life and service.
* **The Old vs. The New Covenant:** The "oldness of the letter" stands in for the previous way of relating to God, while the "newness of spirit" signifies the new covenant reality. This is contrasted in [[2 Corinthians 3:6]], which speaks of ministers of a new testament, "not of the letter, but of the spirit."
* **A Shift in Service:** The purpose of being delivered from this "oldness" is to change the nature of one's service. No longer bound to serve sin [[Romans 6:6]] under the old principle, believers are now enabled to serve the Lord in the Spirit [[Romans 12:11]].
### Summary
In summary, though used only once, `{{G3821}}` `palaiótēs` is a pivotal term. It encapsulates the entire former state of existence under the law, which is described as the "oldness of the letter." Its direct contrast with the "newness of spirit" in [[Romans 7:6]] defines the fundamental shift that occurs in salvation: a deliverance from a state of antiquated bondage to a dynamic new life of service animated by the Spirit.
TRV