### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **polypoíkilos**, represented by `{{G4182}}`, describes something as **much variegated** or **multifarious**. It appears **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, signifying its specific and impactful use. The base definition is derived from πολύς and ποικίλος, highlighting a quality of being manifold.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The singular use of `{{G4182}}` appears in [[Ephesians 3:10]], where it describes the "manifold **wisdom** of God." This verse details a divine purpose: that **now**, through the **church**, God's multifaceted wisdom might be made known to the **principalities** and **powers** in **heavenly** places. The term qualifies the nature of God's wisdom `{{G4678}}`, showing it to be rich and complex.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context clarify the meaning of `{{G4182}}`:
* `{{G4678}}` **sophía** (wisdom): This is what is described as manifold. It refers to **wisdom (higher or lower, worldly or spiritual)**. God is the source of this wisdom, and believers can ask for it [[James 1:5]].
* `{{G1577}}` **ekklēsía** (church): The agent through which this wisdom is revealed. The term denotes a **religious congregation** or **assembly**. Christ builds His **church**, and it serves as the vessel for His glory ([[Matthew 16:18]], [[Ephesians 3:21]]).
* `{{G1107}}` **gnōrízō** (to make known): This is the action of revealing God's wisdom. The word means **to make known** or declare. It is frequently used in the context of God making known the mystery of His will to believers [[Ephesians 1:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4182}}` is significant despite its single occurrence. It illuminates a key aspect of God's divine plan.
* **Revelation Through the Church:** The "manifold **wisdom**" of God is made known **by** `{{G1223}}` the **church** `{{G1577}}`, as stated in [[Ephesians 3:10]]. This positions the community of believers as the instrument for displaying God's intricate plan.
* **Cosmic Demonstration:** This revelation is not just for humanity. It is made known "unto the **principalities** `{{G746}}` and **powers** `{{G1849}}` in **heavenly** `{{G2032}}` places" [[Ephesians 3:10]]. This indicates that the church's existence serves as a testimony to spiritual authorities.
* **The Nature of Divine Wisdom:** The word itself, meaning **multifarious**, emphasizes that God's wisdom is not simple or one-dimensional. It is complex, many-sided, and revealed progressively to demonstrate the brilliance of God's purpose.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4182}}` is a highly specific term that carries immense theological depth. Though used only once, it uniquely qualifies the **wisdom** of God `{{G2316}}` as "manifold" or "much variegated." It frames the **church** `{{G1577}}` as the primary vehicle through which this complex wisdom is demonstrated to the spiritual realm. The use of **polypoíkilos** in [[Ephesians 3:10]] reveals that the very existence of believers showcases the multifaceted brilliance of God's eternal purpose.
TRV