from πολύς and ποικίλος; much variegated, i.e. multifarious:--manifold.
Transliteration:polypoíkilos
Pronunciation:pol-oo-poy'-kil-os
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective πολυποίκιλος (polypoíkilos, `{{G4182}}`) is a compound word formed from πολύς (polys, `{{G4183}}`), meaning "much" or "many," and ποικίλος (poikilos, `{{G4164}}`), meaning "varied," "diverse," "multi-colored," "intricate," or "elaborate." The combination thus signifies "much variegated," "exceedingly diverse," "multifarious," or "many-faceted." It conveys a sense of rich complexity, intricate design, and abundant variety, often implying beauty or skill in its diverse manifestations. The English translation "manifold" aptly captures this sense of having many folds, forms, or aspects. It suggests a reality that is not simple or monolithic, but richly complex and expressed in numerous ways.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term πολυποίκιλος (polypoíkilos, `{{G4182}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, making its singular occurrence particularly significant.
* **[[Ephesians 3:10]]**: "to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God."
In this profound verse, Paul reveals a crucial aspect of God's redemptive plan. The "mystery of Christ" (Ephesians 3:4), which involves the inclusion of Gentiles as co-heirs and co-members of the body with Israel, is not merely for human understanding. Rather, the church, as the unified body of believers from all backgrounds, serves as the instrument through which "the manifold wisdom of God" is made known to "the principalities and powers in heavenly places."
The use of πολυποίκιλος to describe God's wisdom (σοφία, sophia, `{{G4678}}`) is highly intentional. It implies that God's wisdom is not simplistic or one-dimensional, but possesses an infinite array of facets, intricate designs, and diverse expressions. This "manifold wisdom" is particularly demonstrated in the reconciliation of disparate peoples (Jew and Gentile) into one body, the church. The very existence and unity of the church, a community formed of those once alienated from God and each other, stands as a living testament to the unparalleled depth and complexity of God's wisdom, a wisdom that even celestial beings observe and learn from.
### Related Words & Concepts
* πολύς (polys, `{{G4183}}`): The root word meaning "many" or "much," contributing the sense of abundance or multiplicity.
* ποικίλος (poikilos, `{{G4164}}`): The other root word, conveying "varied," "diverse," or "multi-colored." This term itself appears in other significant contexts, such as describing "manifold temptations" ([[1 Peter 1:6]]) and "manifold grace" ([[1 Peter 4:10]]), indicating that God's dealings, whether in testing or blessing, are characterized by rich diversity.
* σοφία (sophia, `{{G4678}}`): Wisdom. The noun modified by πολυποίκιλος, emphasizing the profound and intricate nature of God's divine understanding and plan.
* **Divine Wisdom**: The concept itself is central to biblical theology, portraying God not merely as powerful or loving, but as supremely intelligent and strategic in His purposes.
* **The Church as Revelation**: The New Testament frequently presents the church as the vehicle through which God's glory and plan are displayed to the world and even to spiritual realms.
* **Unity in Diversity**: The bringing together of formerly separate groups (Jew and Gentile) into one body underscores the "manifold" nature of God's wisdom, which can weave disparate elements into a harmonious whole.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of πολυποίκιλος in [[Ephesians 3:10]] elevates its theological significance. It provides a profound insight into the character of God and the purpose of the church.
1. **The Nature of God's Wisdom**: It reveals that God's wisdom is not simple but infinitely complex, rich, and multifaceted. It encompasses an intricate array of purposes, methods, and outcomes that are beyond human comprehension. This "manifold wisdom" is not chaotic but harmoniously ordered, reflecting the perfect artistry of the Divine mind.
2. **The Cosmic Audience**: The fact that this wisdom is made known "to the principalities and powers in heavenly places" suggests a cosmic dimension to God's redemptive work. The unfolding of God's plan through the church serves as an object lesson for spiritual beings, both good and perhaps evil, demonstrating the unparalleled depth and breadth of God's understanding and strategic genius.
3. **The Church's Role**: The church is not merely a recipient of God's grace but an active display of His wisdom. Its very existence, composed of diverse individuals united in Christ, is the living testament to God's ability to reconcile, transform, and integrate. This highlights the profound privilege and responsibility of the church in revealing God's character to the universe.
4. **Beyond Human Comprehension**: The term implies that God's ways are intricate and often beyond our full grasp. His wisdom operates on multiple levels, intertwining various elements to achieve His ultimate purposes, often in ways that are surprising or unexpected from a human perspective.
### Summary
πολυποίκιλος (polypoíkilos, `{{G4182}}`) is a unique and powerful Greek adjective meaning "much variegated," "multifarious," or "manifold." Formed from πολύς ("much") and ποικίλος ("varied," "intricate"), it describes something of rich, complex, and diverse character. Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Ephesians 3:10]] profoundly illuminates the nature of God's wisdom. Here, it signifies that God's wisdom is not simplistic, but possesses an infinite array of facets, intricate designs, and diverse expressions. This "manifold wisdom" is uniquely displayed through the church—the unified body of believers from all backgrounds—to "the principalities and powers in heavenly places." The term underscores the deep, intricate, and beautiful complexity of God's redemptive plan, revealing His perfect artistry in weaving together disparate elements into a harmonious whole for His glory and the instruction of the cosmos.
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