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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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