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.
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.
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.
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.
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