### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **plássō**, represented by `{{G4111}}`, is a primary verb that means **to mould, i.e. shape or fabricate**. It appears **3 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. This term specifically conveys the deliberate action of a craftsman fashioning or shaping a substance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4111}}` exclusively describes God's act of creation. It is central to the account of human origins in [[1 Timothy 2:13]], which states that "Adam was **first** **formed**." This establishes a specific sequence and action. The word is also used to illustrate divine sovereignty in [[Romans 9:20]], where it forms the basis of a rhetorical question: "Shall the thing formed say to him that **formed** it, Why hast thou made me thus?". This usage highlights the relationship between the Creator and the created.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the act of forming:
* `{{G4110}}` **plásma** (something moulded): This noun is the direct counterpart to `{{G4111}}` and refers to the "thing **formed**." It is used to emphasize the distinction between the creator and the object that has been shaped [[Romans 9:20]].
* `{{G4160}}` **poiéō** (to make or do): This is a broader term for creation, appearing in the same passage to ask why God has "**made**" someone a certain way, contrasting the general act of making with the specific act of moulding [[Romans 9:20]].
* `{{G76}}` **Adám** (Adam, the first man): This proper noun identifies the first human as the subject who was **formed** by God, directly linking the action of `{{G4111}}` to the beginning of mankind [[1 Timothy 2:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4111}}` is focused on God's role as the sovereign Creator.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The word is used in [[Romans 9:20]] to assert God's absolute authority. It is deployed in a question that challenges the right of a `man` `{{G444}}` to **reply against** `{{G470}}` `God` `{{G2316}}`, affirming the Creator's prerogative over His creation.
* **Order of Creation:** The term is foundational to the stated order of creation in [[1 Timothy 2:13]], where the text specifies that Adam was **first** `{{G4413}}` **formed**, and **then** `{{G1534}}` Eve.
* **The Potter and Clay Metaphor:** By defining the action as moulding or shaping, `{{G4111}}` evokes the powerful image of a potter working with clay. This illustrates the dependent nature of humanity and the absolute authority of God as the one who **forms** His creation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4111}}` is a specific and impactful verb that, though used rarely, defines God's intimate and deliberate role as the fabricator of humanity. It underpins the theological concepts of divine sovereignty over creation and the established order of human origins, portraying God as the master craftsman and humanity as that which He has personally **formed**.
TRV