### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **skḗnōma**, represented by `{{G4638}}`, is used for a **tabernacle**. It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses. The term refers to an encampment or dwelling, and is used figuratively to describe both the Temple as God's residence and the human body as a temporary tenement for the soul.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4638}}` appears in two key figurative contexts. First, it refers to a physical dwelling for God, as seen when David found **favour** `{{G5485}}` before **God** `{{G2316}}` and desired to find a **tabernacle** for the God of **Jacob** `{{G2384}}` [[Acts 7:46]]. Second, the Apostle Peter uses the term to describe his own physical body. He states that he thinks it is **meet** `{{G1342}}` to stir up believers as long as he is in "this **tabernacle**" [[2 Peter 1:13]] and that he knows he must shortly put off his **tabernacle**, as the **Lord** `{{G2962}}` Jesus **Christ** `{{G5547}}` had shown him [[2 Peter 1:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the idea of a **tabernacle** as a temporary dwelling:
* `{{G595}}` **apóthesis** (putting away (off)): This word is directly linked to the temporary nature of the body, as Peter refers to the **putting off** of his tabernacle [[2 Peter 1:14]].
* `{{G1213}}` **dēlóō** (to make plain (by words)): This term reveals that Peter's understanding of his coming death was divinely revealed, as the Lord Jesus Christ had **shewed** it to him [[2 Peter 1:14]].
* `{{G5280}}` **hypómnēsis** (a reminding or (reflexively) recollection): Peter’s purpose while living in his earthly **tabernacle** is to stir up believers by putting them in **remembrance**, linking our physical existence to a spiritual duty [[2 Peter 1:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4638}}` centers on the nature of dwellings, both divine and human.
* **The Body as a Temporary Dwelling:** The primary theological use is as a metaphor for the human body. It emphasizes the transient nature of earthly life, portraying the body as a temporary home that will one day be put off [[2 Peter 1:14]].
* **A Residence for God:** The term also connects to the desire for God's presence among his people, as expressed in the search for a **tabernacle** for **God** to dwell in [[Acts 7:46]].
* **Purpose in Temporality:** Being "in this **tabernacle**" is presented as a period of purposeful ministry. Peter views his remaining time on earth as an opportunity to **stir** `{{G1326}}` up believers, fulfilling what he considers a **meet** `{{G1342}}` or just responsibility [[2 Peter 1:13]].
### Summary
In summary, **skḗnōma** `{{G4638}}` is a potent term that, while used sparingly, defines a dwelling in two significant ways. It represents the sacred space where God resides among His people and, more frequently, serves as a metaphor for the human body as a temporary vessel for the soul. This highlights the transient but purposeful nature of our physical lives.
TRV