of uncertain affinity; a vessel, implement, equipment or apparatus (literally or figuratively [specially, a wife as contributing to the usefulness of the husband]):--goods, sail, stuff, vessel.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **skeûos**, represented by `{{G4632}}`, is a versatile term for a **vessel**, **implement**, or **apparatus**. It appears 23 times across 22 unique verses in the Bible. Its meaning ranges from literal objects, such as household goods or a ship's sail, to figurative applications describing human beings as instruments for a specific purpose.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G4632}}` refers to a wide array of items. It describes literal objects such as a jar of **vinegar** [[John 19:29]], the **goods** in a strong man's house [[Mark 3:27]], and the equipment of a ship, or its **sail** [[Acts 27:17]]. The term is also used for sacred items, like the **vessels** of the ministry in the tabernacle [[Hebrews 9:21]]. Figuratively, it is powerfully applied to people. The apostle Paul is called a "chosen **vessel**" by the Lord [[Acts 9:15]], and believers are described as "earthen **vessels**" containing a divine treasure [[2 Corinthians 4:7]]. The term also describes a wife as the "weaker **vessel**" [[1 Peter 3:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words help to specify the nature and material of the vessels described by `{{G4632}}`:
* `{{G3749}}` **ostrákinos** (of earth): This adjective describes **vessels** made of clay or earthenware, emphasizing their fragile nature, as seen in [[2 Corinthians 4:7]].
* `{{G5552}}` **chrýseos** (of gold): This describes **vessels** of high value, often contrasted with those of lesser materials, as found in a great house [[2 Timothy 2:20]].
* `{{G693}}` **argýreos** (of silver): Used alongside gold to denote precious **vessels** [[2 Timothy 2:20]].
* `{{G3585}}` **xýlinos** (wooden): Describes common **vessels** made of wood, highlighting the variety of implements in a household [[2 Timothy 2:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4632}}` is profound, particularly in its figurative use to describe humanity.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The potter and clay analogy uses **vessel** to illustrate God's sovereign purpose. He has the power to make one **vessel** for honour and another for dishonour [[Romans 9:21]], creating both "**vessels** of wrath" and "**vessels** of mercy" [[Romans 9:22-23]].
* **Human Instruments:** Individuals are depicted as **vessels** chosen for God's work. Paul is a "chosen **vessel**" intended to bear Christ's name before Gentiles and kings [[Acts 9:15]].
* **Sanctification and Purpose:** Believers are called to be useful instruments for God. By purging oneself, a person can become a **vessel** for honour, sanctified and prepared for every good work [[2 Timothy 2:21]]. This requires knowing how to possess one's own **vessel** in sanctification and honour [[1 Thessalonians 4:4]].
* **Frailty and God's Power:** The image of believers as "earthen **vessels**" underscores human weakness, which serves to display that the excellency of God's power comes from Him and not from us [[2 Corinthians 4:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4632}}` extends far beyond the simple definition of a container. It functions as a powerful biblical metaphor, representing everything from common household goods and a ship's sail to human beings in their relationship with God. The word illustrates divine sovereignty, human frailty, and the potential for a sanctified life, showing how an ordinary object can be used to explain profound spiritual truths.
TRV