### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **rhytís**, represented by `{{G4512}}`, means a **wrinkle**. This term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its base definition describes a fold, as if drawn together, specifically like a wrinkle on the face.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G4512}}` is in a highly symbolic context. It is used to describe the ideal state of the church, which Christ presents to himself as glorious. This church is described as "not having spot, or **wrinkle**, or any such thing" [[Ephesians 5:27]]. Here, the **wrinkle** serves as a metaphor for any blemish, sign of age, or imperfection that Christ has removed, making his church holy.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of the church's perfection is expanded by several related words in its singular context:
* `{{G1577}}` **ekklēsía** (a calling out, i.e. (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation): This is the subject being purified. Christ's goal is to present a glorious **church** [[Ephesians 5:27]], which he builds and for which he gave himself ([[Matthew 16:18]], [[Ephesians 5:25]]).
* `{{G4696}}` **spílos** (a stain or blemish, i.e. (figuratively) defect, disgrace): This word is used in parallel with **wrinkle** to denote any kind of flaw. The church is presented without **spot** or wrinkle [[Ephesians 5:27]].
* `{{G299}}` **ámōmos** (unblemished (literally or figuratively)): This word describes the final state of the church. It is to be presented holy and **without blemish** [[Ephesians 5:27]]. Christ's sacrifice was intended to make believers **without blame** before God [[Ephesians 1:4]].
* `{{G1741}}` **éndoxos** (in glory, i.e. splendid, (figuratively) noble): This describes the magnificent state of the church. Christ's work results in a **glorious** church [[Ephesians 5:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4512}}` is found entirely within its metaphorical use concerning the nature of the church.
* **Christ's Redemptive Goal:** The word is used to illustrate Christ's purpose in presenting the church `{{G1577}}` to himself as **glorious** [[Ephesians 5:27]].
* **Metaphor for Flaws:** A **wrinkle** is a figurative representation of any defect, sign of decay, or moral imperfection that is inconsistent with the holiness of the church.
* **The Goal of Holiness:** The absence of a **wrinkle** or spot `{{G4696}}` highlights the ultimate goal for the church: to be made **holy** `{{G40}}` and **without blemish** `{{G299}}`, a state achieved through Christ [[Ephesians 5:27]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4512}}` is a specific and rare term used metaphorically to illustrate a profound spiritual truth. Its single appearance in scripture powerfully depicts Christ's work of sanctification, cleansing the church of every imperfection—every **spot** and **wrinkle**—to present it to himself as a holy, glorious, and unblemished body.
TRV