### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **poîos**, represented by `{{G4169}}`, is an interrogative word used to ask **what sort of** or **which one**. It appears 34 times across 33 unique verses. Its primary function is to individualize a question, seeking to clarify the specific character, manner, or identity of a person, object, or concept.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4169}}` is frequently used to pose critical questions. It is central to inquiries about Jesus's authority, as when the chief priests and elders ask, "By **what** authority doest thou these things?" [[Matthew 21:23]]. It is also used to identify specific priorities within the law, such as when a scribe asks which is the first commandment [[Mark 12:28]]. Furthermore, the word is used to signify the specific nature of a future event, such as "by **what** death he should glorify God" [[John 21:19]] or the "what manner of time" the prophets were searching for regarding Christ's sufferings [[1 Peter 1:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to frame the context in which `{{G4169}}` is used:
* `{{G5101}}` **tís** (an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what): This is another question word that can be used in parallel with `poîos` to seek information. In a quote from the Lord, a question about "**what** (`poîos`) house will ye build me" is followed by "**what** (`tís`) is the place of my rest?" [[Acts 7:49]].
* `{{G1849}}` **exousía** (delegated influence): This word for authority is often the subject of a question using `poîos`. Jesus is repeatedly asked by **what** authority (`poîos exousía`) He performs His works [[Mark 11:28]].
* `{{G1785}}` **entolḗ** (an authoritative prescription): `poîos` is used to single out a specific commandment. For example, Jesus is asked, "**which** is the great commandment in the law?" [[Matthew 22:36]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G4169}}` carries significant theological weight by forcing clarification on essential matters.
* **Defining Divine Authority:** The repeated question, "By **what** authority doest thou these things?" [[Luke 20:2]], directly challenges the source of Christ's power and ministry, forcing a confrontation between human religious structures and divine right.
* **Specifying Prophetic Fulfillment:** The word is crucial for understanding the nature of prophecy. It is used to describe how the prophets searched for "**what manner** of time the Spirit of Christ" indicated [[1 Peter 1:11]] and how Jesus's words signified "**what** death he should die" [[John 18:32]].
* **Identifying Moral Priorities:** `poîos` serves to cut through ambiguity and establish what is most important. When asked "**which** is the great commandment" [[Matthew 22:36]], the answer clarifies the core of the law. Similarly, it is used to contrast the law of works with the law of faith, asking "By **what** law?" [[Romans 3:27]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4169}}` functions as more than a simple interrogative. It is a precise tool used throughout Scripture to demand specificity concerning authority, law, and prophecy. Whether clarifying the nature of Jesus's death [[John 12:33]], the identity of the greatest commandment [[Matthew 22:36]], or the source of divine power [[Acts 4:7]], **poîos** compels the narrative to focus on the specific character and identity of God's actions and decrees.
TRV