### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **plános**, represented by `{{G4108}}`, defines a person or influence that is roving, an impostor, or a misleader. Based on its root, it carries the idea of a tramp or wanderer who leads others astray. It appears **5 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently used to identify sources of deception.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4108}}` identifies those who actively work against the truth. Jesus himself was maliciously labeled "that **deceiver**" by his opponents who recalled his promise to rise from the dead [[Matthew 27:63]]. The apostle Paul contrasts the perception of his ministry with reality, noting they were viewed "as **deceivers**, and yet true" [[2 Corinthians 6:8]]. The term is also used to describe spiritual forces, as in the warning against "seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils" [[1 Timothy 4:1]]. Finally, it characterizes those who deny the incarnation, with the scripture stating, "This is a **deceiver** and an antichrist" [[2 John 1:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature and context of deception:
* `{{G500}}` **antíchristos** (an opponent of the Messiah): This term is directly linked to `{{G4108}}` to identify those who deny that Jesus Christ came in the flesh, marking them as the ultimate **deceiver** [[2 John 1:7]].
* `{{G1319}}` **didaskalía** (instruction... doctrine): This word highlights the content spread by deceptive influences. The warning in [[1 Timothy 4:1]] cautions against giving heed to "**doctrines** of devils" that are promoted by "**seducing** spirits."
* `{{G227}}` **alēthḗs** (true (as not concealing)): This word stands in direct opposition to `{{G4108}}`. Paul uses it to contrast the false perception of his group as **deceivers** with their actual identity as being **true** [[2 Corinthians 6:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4108}}` is significant, serving as a key marker for identifying opposition to God.
* **Denial of Christ's Nature:** A primary mark of a **deceiver** `{{G4108}}` is the refusal to **confess** `{{G3670}}` that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh. This act of denial is so severe that it earns the title of **antichrist** `{{G500}}` [[2 John 1:7]].
* **Source of Apostasy:** Deceptive influences are a direct cause for believers falling away. The Spirit **speaketh** `{{G3004}}` explicitly that in latter times, some will **depart from** `{{G868}}` the faith by giving **heed** `{{G4337}}` to **seducing** `{{G4108}}` spirits [[1 Timothy 4:1]].
* **A Weapon Against the Righteous:** The label of **deceiver** was used falsely against Christ by his enemies [[Matthew 27:63]] and against the apostles, who endured **dishonour** `{{G819}}` and **evil report** `{{G1426}}` while remaining true [[2 Corinthians 6:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4108}}` is a potent term used to identify those who mislead, whether human or spiritual. It defines individuals who reject the core truth of the gospel—specifically the incarnation of Christ—and who spread false doctrine. The word serves as a solemn warning to believers to be discerning, as the label of "deceiver" was not only used to attack Christ and His followers but also describes the very real threat posed by those who would lead people astray from the truth.
TRV