### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adverb **sōmatikōs**, represented by `{{G4985}}`, means **bodily**, signifying a corporeal or physical reality. It is a highly specific term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the scriptures. Its singular use provides a critical definition of how the fullness of divinity resides in Christ.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G4985}}` is in [[Colossians 2:9]]: "For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead **bodily**." In this pivotal statement, the word emphasizes that the divine nature does not merely influence or associate with Christ, but is fully present in a physical, corporeal form. It asserts the complete and tangible reality of God's essence dwelling permanently within the person of Jesus.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{G4985}}` is illuminated by the words used alongside it in its only context:
* `{{G2730}}` **katoikéō** (to house permanently, i.e. reside): This verb signifies a permanent and settled residence, not a temporary visit. It is used to describe how Christ may **dwell** in the hearts of believers [[Ephesians 3:17]] and how God does not **dwell** in temples made with hands [[Acts 17:24]], making its application to Christ's body profoundly significant.
* `{{G4138}}` **plḗrōma** (repletion or completion): This term communicates the concept of **fulness** or completeness. It declares that the entirety of God, not just a portion or aspect, resides in Christ. This idea of **fulness** is also seen when believers are to be filled with "all the **fulness** of God" [[Ephesians 3:19]].
* `{{G2320}}` **theótēs** (divinity (abstractly)): This word refers to the very essence and nature of God, the **Godhead**. The use of `{{G4985}}` specifies that this abstract **divinity** is made concrete and physical in Christ.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4985}}` is immense, as it anchors a central tenet of Christology.
* **The Reality of the Incarnation:** The word provides direct scriptural support that the divine nature physically inhabited the human body of Jesus. In [[Colossians 2:9]], it clarifies that the indwelling of the Godhead is not merely a spiritual metaphor but a corporeal fact.
* **The Fullness of Deity in Christ:** By modifying the phrase "all the fulness of the Godhead," `{{G4985}}` affirms that the complete and undivided essence of God resides **bodily** in Christ.
* **Permanent Divine Presence:** Paired with the verb "dwelleth" `{{G2730}}`, which means to reside permanently, the adverb **bodily** indicates that this physical union of divinity and humanity in Christ is an eternal and unchanging reality.
### Summary
In summary, **sōmatikōs** `{{G4985}}` is a uniquely precise adverb that carries profound theological importance. Its single use in scripture defines the nature of the Incarnation, confirming that "all the fulness of the Godhead" [[Colossians 2:9]] has a physical, corporeal, and permanent residence in Christ. It transforms an abstract concept of divinity into a tangible reality, making it a cornerstone for understanding the person of Christ.
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