### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **palaióō**, represented by `{{G3822}}`, means to make or become worn out, or to declare something obsolete. Based on the term παλαιός, it is used to describe the process of decay or making something old. It appears **6 times** across **3 unique verses**, highlighting its specific application in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G3822}}` illustrates the contrast between the temporary and the eternal. In Hebrews, it is used to describe creation, which "shall wax old as doth a garment" [[Hebrews 1:11]], contrasting the finite nature of the physical world with the unchanging nature of God. The term is also used theologically to declare the first covenant "old" [[Hebrews 8:13]] with the establishment of a new one. In a more practical sense, it describes earthly possessions, such as "bags which wax not old" [[Luke 12:33]], contrasting them with the permanent "treasure" `{{G2344}}` found in the heavens `{{G3772}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G3822}}`:
* `{{G1095}}` **gēráskō** (to be senescent:--be (wax) old): This word is used alongside `{{G3822}}` in [[Hebrews 8:13]] to emphasize the aging process of the first covenant, which "decayeth and waxeth old."
* `{{G1265}}` **diaménō** (to stay constantly...:--continue, remain): This term serves as a direct antonym in [[Hebrews 1:11]], where creation will "wax old" `{{G3822}}` while God "remainest" `{{G1265}}`, highlighting divine permanence.
* `{{G854}}` **aphanismós** (disappearance, i.e. (by implication) abrogation:--vanish away): This word describes the ultimate result for that which has been made old. In [[Hebrews 8:13]], the covenant that "decayeth" `{{G3822}}` is described as "ready to vanish away."
### Theological Significance
The theological concepts associated with `{{G3822}}` are significant, particularly in contrasting the old with the new.
* **Transience of Creation:** The word establishes that the physical universe is temporary and subject to wearing out, much like a garment that becomes old over time [[Hebrews 1:11]].
* **Obsolescence of the Old Covenant:** `{{G3822}}` is used to formally declare the first covenant obsolete. By calling the covenant "new" `{{G2537}}`, God "hath made the first old" [[Hebrews 8:13]], indicating its supersession.
* **Permanence of Heavenly Treasure:** The concept of things not waxing old is applied to heavenly rewards. Unlike earthly possessions that decay, the "treasure in the heavens" [[Luke 12:33]] is permanent and incorruptible.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3822}}` moves beyond a simple definition of aging. It is a key term used to articulate a fundamental biblical principle: the fading of the physical and provisional in light of the eternal and spiritual. Whether applied to the created world, material wealth, or the first covenant, **palaióō** consistently points to that which is temporary and destined to be replaced by something permanent and new.
TRV