### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **póteron**, represented by `{{G4220}}`, is an interrogative adverb used to pose a choice between two options. Its definition is "which (of two), i.e. is it this or that:--whether." This specific term is quite rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting its specialized use.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G4220}}` is in [[John 7:17]], where Jesus provides the means to verify the source of his teaching. He states, "If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, **whether** it be of God, or whether I speak of myself." Here, **póteron** introduces a critical point of discernment, forcing a decision between two distinct origins for the doctrine being presented: either it is from God or it is from Jesus speaking on his own authority.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its single context clarify the meaning of `{{G4220}}`:
* `{{G1097}}` **ginṓskō** (to "know"): The result of applying the test introduced by **póteron** is to gain knowledge. A person who does God's will "shall **know**" the origin of the teaching [[John 7:17]].
* `{{G1322}}` **didachḗ** (doctrine, instruction): This is the subject under evaluation. The question is **whether** the **doctrine** is from a divine or human source [[John 7:17]].
* `{{G2228}}` **ḗ** (or): This disjunctive particle works in tandem with **póteron** to present the two alternatives. The structure is "whether (póteron)... **or** (ḗ)," establishing the choice between the doctrine being "of God" **or** from Jesus himself [[John 7:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4220}}` is concentrated in its single use, establishing a crucial principle for discernment.
* **The Test of Doctrine:** The word is central to the question of spiritual authority. It frames the method by which any teaching, or **doctrine** `{{G1322}}`, can be tested to see if its origin is from **God** `{{G2316}}`.
* **Obedience as a Path to Knowledge:** The ability to discern "whether" a teaching is true is directly linked to one's willingness to **do** `{{G4160}}` God's **will** `{{G2307}}`. This suggests that spiritual understanding is not merely intellectual but is granted to the obedient heart [[John 7:17]].
* **Source of Authority:** By presenting a choice between a teaching being "of God" or "of myself" `{{G1683}}`, **póteron** underscores the ultimate standard for all spiritual truth: its divine origin.
### Summary
In summary, **póteron** `{{G4220}}`, though appearing only once, serves a vital function. It is an interrogative adverb that frames a critical test for discerning the source of spiritual teaching. Its use in [[John 7:17]] establishes that the ability to determine **whether** a doctrine is from God or from man is unlocked through a commitment to doing God's will, making it a key term for understanding the relationship between obedience and spiritual discernment.
TRV