from σκῆνος; to tent or encamp, i.e. (figuratively) to occupy (as a mansion) or (specially), to reside (as God did in the Tabernacle of old, a symbol of protection and communion):-- dwell.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **skēnóō**, represented by `{{G4637}}`, is defined as to tent or encamp. It is derived from σκῆνος (tent) and is used figuratively to mean to occupy or reside, specifically as God did in the Tabernacle, which was a symbol of protection and communion. In the Bible, it appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses**, and is translated as **dwell**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word's most notable use is in the Gospel of John, which states that "the Word was made flesh, and **dwelt** among us" [[John 1:14]], linking the concept directly to the incarnation of Christ. The remaining four instances appear in Revelation. It describes God's future, ultimate presence with his people, promising that "he will **dwell** with them" [[Revelation 21:3]]. It is also used to describe the residence of the saints in heaven, both those who are called to rejoice [[Revelation 12:12]] and those who, along with God's tabernacle, are blasphemed by the beast [[Revelation 13:6]]. Finally, it signifies God's protective presence over those who serve him before the throne [[Revelation 7:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G4637}}`:
* `{{G4633}}` **skēnḗ** (habitation, tabernacle): This noun, from which **skēnóō** is derived, refers to a tent or cloth hut. The direct relationship is seen in [[Revelation 21:3]], where "the **tabernacle** `{{G4633}}` of God" is with men, and as a result, "he will **dwell** `{{G4637}}` with them."
* `{{G2730}}` **katoikéō** (dwell, inhabitant): This term, meaning to house permanently, provides a contrast. In [[Revelation 12:12]], a woe is pronounced on the "inhabiters" of the earth `{{G2730}}`, while a call to rejoice is issued to "ye that **dwell** `{{G4637}}` in" the heavens.
* `{{G3000}}` **latreúō** (serve, worship): This word for rendering religious homage is connected to God's presence. Those before God's throne **serve** him, and in turn, "he that sitteth on the throne shall **dwell** among them" [[Revelation 7:15]].
* `{{G3326}}` **metá** (with): This preposition, denoting accompaniment, is used to emphasize the intimacy of God's dwelling. The promise in [[Revelation 21:3]] is that God will not just be present, but will dwell **with** them, and they will be His people.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4637}}` is significant and multifaceted:
* **Incarnational Presence:** The word's use in [[John 1:14]] is foundational, indicating that Jesus's life on earth was a form of divine "tabernacling" among humanity, a real and glorious, yet temporary, dwelling of God in flesh.
* **Eschatological Communion:** In Revelation, to **dwell** is the ultimate promise of the end times. God's final act of dwelling with humanity solidifies His covenant relationship, where "they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God" [[Revelation 21:3]].
* **Divine Protection:** The concept of dwelling is tied to God's care. For the redeemed who serve before the throne, the promise that God "shall **dwell** among them" is a sign of His ongoing protection and fellowship [[Revelation 7:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4637}}` is more than a simple term for residing; it is a word laden with meaning, signifying "to tent" or "to tabernacle." It powerfully conveys the concept of God's presence with His people, from the profound reality of Christ who **dwelt** on earth [[John 1:14]] to the ultimate hope of the new creation where God will **dwell** with them forever [[Revelation 21:3]]. The word underscores the deep intimacy, communion, and protection inherent in the relationship between God and the redeemed.
TRV