### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **plēsmonḗ**, represented by `{{G4140}}`, refers to **a filling up, i.e. (figuratively) gratification:--satisfying**. It appears **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is derived from a presumed derivative of πλήθω, indicating the concept of being filled up.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G4140}}` is found in [[Colossians 2:23]]. Here, it is used in a critical context to describe the ultimate end of man-made religious rules. These regulations—which include "will worship," "humility," and "neglecting of the body"—may have the appearance of wisdom, but they offer no real honor and are ultimately aimed at the **satisfying** of the flesh. The word highlights the gratification of carnal desires, which stands in contrast to true spiritual honor.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its sole context in [[Colossians 2:23]] clarify the meaning of `{{G4140}}`:
* `{{G4561}}` **sárx** (flesh (...) human nature (with its frailties (physically or morally) and passions)): This is the object being gratified. The verse speaks of the "**satisfying** of the **flesh**," directly linking `{{G4140}}` to the indulgence of human nature [[Colossians 2:23]].
* `{{G857}}` **apheidía** (unsparingness, i.e. austerity (asceticism):--neglecting): This word describes one of the outwardly pious acts, the "**neglecting** of the body," which is presented as having a show of wisdom but is ultimately ineffective for dealing with the desires of the flesh [[Colossians 2:23]].
* `{{G1479}}` **ethelothrēskeía** (voluntary (arbitrary and unwarranted) piety, i.e. sanctimony:--will worship): This term is part of the same list of deceptive practices. It describes a self-imposed religion that, despite its appearance, provides no real honor and is connected to the context of satisfying the flesh [[Colossians 2:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4140}}` is primarily found in its warning against misplaced spiritual efforts.
* **The Inefficacy of Asceticism:** The word's usage in [[Colossians 2:23]] demonstrates that severe self-discipline ("neglecting of the body") and man-made religion ("will worship") are of no value in checking the indulgence or **satisfying** of the flesh.
* **Distinguishing Appearance from Reality:** The concept of **satisfying** the flesh is part of a list of things that only have "a shew of wisdom." This highlights a theological distinction between outward religious appearances and true spiritual honor.
* **The Focus on the Flesh:** `{{G4140}}` points to the gratification of the **flesh** (`{{G4561}}`) as a negative outcome. The context implies that these false religious practices, while appearing to deny the body, are ultimately related to fleshly indulgence rather than spiritual growth.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4140}}`, **plēsmonḗ**, is a specialized term for gratification. Its single biblical appearance in [[Colossians 2:23]] serves as a powerful critique of religious practices that have an appearance of wisdom but ultimately fail to provide true honor, instead serving only for the **satisfying** of the flesh. It underscores the biblical warning against substituting man-made rules for genuine, Spirit-led transformation.
TRV