### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **potapós**, represented by `{{G4217}}`, is an interrogative term used to ask **what manner of** or **of what possible sort** something is. It appears **7 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. The word is used to express surprise, wonder, or inquiry into the fundamental nature or quality of a person, object, or concept.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4217}}` is used to convey a sense of awe or to question something's character. After Jesus calms the storm, the men marvelled, asking, "**What manner of man** is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him!" [[Matthew 8:27]]. A disciple uses it to express admiration for the temple, saying, "Master, see **what manner** of stones and what buildings are here!" [[Mark 13:1]]. The word also frames a profound theological statement in [[1 John 3:1]], which calls us to "Behold, **what manner** of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God." In another context, it is used to challenge believers on the nature of their conduct, asking "**what manner** of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness" [[2 Peter 3:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{G4217}}` is used:
* `{{G2296}}` **thaumázō** (to wonder; by implication, to admire): This word describes the reaction of the men who witnessed Christ's power over the sea and asked "**what manner of man**" he was [[Matthew 8:27]].
* `{{G26}}` **agápē** (love, i.e. affection or benevolence): This is the subject of the question in [[1 John 3:1]], where the author marvels at the quality and kind of **love** the Father has bestowed on believers.
* `{{G2150}}` **eusébeia** (piety; specially, the gospel scheme): This quality is what believers are called to, as Peter uses `{{G4217}}` to ask what manner of people they should be, specifically in relation to **godliness** [[2 Peter 3:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4217}}` comes from its use in questioning and revealing divine and moral truths.
* **Revealing Christ's Authority:** The disciples' question, "**What manner of man** is this?" [[Matthew 8:27]], is a response to a miracle that demonstrates Jesus's unique power over the natural world, pointing toward His divine identity.
* **Defining God's Love:** The term is used to emphasize the extraordinary and unparalleled quality of God's **love** `{{G26}}`, which is so profound that it transforms believers into the **sons** `{{G5043}}` of God [[1 John 3:1]].
* **A Call to Holy Living:** In [[2 Peter 3:11]], the question of "**what manner** of persons" believers ought to be serves as a rhetorical device, urging a life of **holy** `{{G40}}` **conversation** `{{G391}}` and **godliness** `{{G2150}}` in light of Christ's return.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4217}}` is more than a simple interrogative. It is a word that captures a sense of wonder and prompts deep reflection. Whether used by disciples in awe of Christ's power, an apostle describing the incomprehensible love of God, or a Pharisee questioning someone's character, **potapós** forces the audience to consider the exceptional and defining quality of the subject at hand.
TRV