### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **schēma**, represented by `{{G4976}}`, refers to a **figure** or **fashion**, implying an external condition or circumstance. It appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, yet these occurrences carry significant weight in describing both divine action and the nature of the world. The term denotes an outward appearance or form that may be temporary.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4976}}` is applied in two distinct contexts. It is used to describe Christ's incarnation, where He was "found in **fashion** as a man" and subsequently humbled Himself to the point of death [[Philippians 2:8]]. This highlights His outward, observable human form. The word is also used to describe the temporary nature of the current world system, stating that "the **fashion** of this world passeth away" [[1 Corinthians 7:31]], urging believers not to misuse or become attached to it.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G4976}}` in its contexts:
* `{{G444}}` **ánthrōpos** (man-faced, i.e. a human being): This specifies the kind of **fashion** Christ took on, appearing in a form recognizable as a **man** [[Philippians 2:8]].
* `{{G2889}}` **kósmos** (orderly arrangement... the world): This defines the domain whose external form is temporary. The "fashion" of this **world** is what is described as passing away [[1 Corinthians 7:31]].
* `{{G3855}}` **parágō** (to lead near... to go along or away): This verb describes the action associated with the world's **fashion**, indicating that its current state is transient and will **pass away** [[1 Corinthians 7:31]].
* `{{G5013}}` **tapeinóō** (to depress; figuratively, to humiliate): This action is directly linked to Christ taking on the **fashion** of a man; He **humbled** Himself in this state [[Philippians 2:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4976}}` is focused on the concepts of incarnation and eschatology.
* **The Humility of Christ:** The word is crucial for understanding the incarnation. By being found in "fashion as a man," Christ took on the external condition of humanity, which was the precursor to his ultimate act of obedience and self-humiliation on the cross [[Philippians 2:8]].
* **The Transience of the World:** The term establishes that the present world system is not permanent. Its "fashion"—its structures, arrangements, and appearances—is temporary and "passeth away" [[1 Corinthians 7:31]], guiding the believer's perspective on earthly matters.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4976}}` is a precise term for an outward, observable form or condition. Though used infrequently, it powerfully contrasts the voluntary, temporary **fashion** of Christ's humanity with the inherently transient **fashion** of the world. It thereby serves as a key descriptor for both the humility of God in the incarnation and the fleeting nature of the present age.
TRV