### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **polytrópōs**, represented by `{{G4187}}`, is an adverb meaning **in divers manners**. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The word's definition signifies something done variously as to method or form, and it is derived from a compound of words for "many" and "ways."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G4187}}` is found in [[Hebrews 1:1]]. The word is used to describe the method by which **God** `{{G2316}}` **spake** `{{G2980}}` to the fathers through the **prophets** `{{G4396}}`. In this verse, it is paired with **polymerōs** `{{G4181}}`, which means "at sundry times," to clarify that God's communication in the past was varied not only in its timing but also in its form. The phrase "in **divers manners**" is a direct translation of `{{G4187}}` and highlights this variety.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its single biblical context provide a fuller picture of its meaning:
* `{{G4181}}` **polymerōs**: This adverb means "in many portions, i.e. variously as to time and agency (piecemeal):--at sundry times." It is used directly alongside `{{G4187}}` to describe God's past revelations [[Hebrews 1:1]].
* `{{G2316}}` **theós**: Defined as "a deity, especially (with ὁ) the supreme Divinity," this is the subject who acts "in divers manners." It identifies **God** as the source of the communication [[Hebrews 1:1]].
* `{{G2980}}` **laléō**: This verb means "to talk, i.e. utter words." It is the action that `{{G4187}}` modifies, showing that **God** "spake" in various ways [[Hebrews 1:1]].
* `{{G4396}}` **prophḗtēs**: Meaning "a foreteller ('prophet'); by analogy, an inspired speaker," this word identifies the agents through whom God spoke. God used the **prophets** as the channel for His varied messages [[Hebrews 1:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4187}}` is concentrated in its single usage, which describes the nature of God's revelation.
* **Variety in Divine Revelation:** The word directly states that God's communication through the **prophets** `{{G4396}}` was not monolithic. He spoke "in **divers manners**," indicating a multifaceted approach to revealing His will over time.
* **God as the Sole Communicator:** In the context of [[Hebrews 1:1]], the subject is **God** `{{G2316}}`. This emphasizes that despite the many forms and methods, the origin of the message was singular and divine.
* **The Medium of the Prophets:** The term modifies how God **spake** `{{G2980}}` through the **prophets** `{{G4396}}`, underscoring their role as chosen vessels for these varied forms of divine speech.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4187}}` **polytrópōs** is a specific and descriptive adverb that, while appearing only once, provides a key insight into the biblical view of divine revelation. It highlights that God's communication in times past was varied and multifaceted. Used in [[Hebrews 1:1]], it illustrates that the one **God** `{{G2316}}` chose to **speak** `{{G2980}}` through the **prophets** `{{G4396}}` using a rich diversity of methods and forms.
TRV