### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **teknogonía**, represented by `{{G5042}}`, refers to **childbearing**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its definition points to the act of childbirth or, by implication, the broader duties of maternity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G5042}}` appears in [[1 Timothy 2:15]], where it is stated that a woman "shall be saved in **childbearing**." This statement is not presented in isolation but is immediately qualified by a crucial condition: salvation is linked to this role "if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety." The context frames childbearing not as a means of salvation itself, but as a sphere in which a woman's sanctified life is expressed.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its sole context in [[1 Timothy 2:15]] illuminate its meaning:
* `{{G4982}}` **sṓzō** (to save): This word means to deliver or protect. Its placement here connects the idea of salvation not to a single act, but to a life lived through faith, as stated in [[Ephesians 2:8]] where believers are "saved through faith."
* `{{G3306}}` **ménō** (to continue): Defined as to stay, abide, or remain, this word emphasizes the necessity of endurance. The promise is conditional on one abiding in a state of faith, a concept also seen in [[John 15:7]]: "If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will."
* `{{G4102}}` **pístis** (faith): This is the first condition mentioned. It signifies reliance upon Christ and moral conviction. Without faith, "it is impossible to please him" [[Hebrews 11:6]].
* `{{G26}}` **agápē** (charity): Meaning affection or benevolence, this is presented as a core virtue to continue in. It is described as the greatest of the abiding virtues alongside faith and hope [[1 Corinthians 13:13]].
* `{{G38}}` **hagiasmós** (holiness): Meaning purification or the state of purity, this is the final spiritual quality listed. It is an essential component of the believer's life, as believers are called "unto holiness" [[1 Thessalonians 4:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5042}}` is derived entirely from its conditional context.
* **Salvation's Expression, Not Source:** The verse does not present childbearing as a transactional path to salvation. Instead, it frames a traditional maternal role as a context for demonstrating the saving faith that one already possesses. This is supported by the clear teaching that salvation is by grace through faith [[Ephesians 2:8]].
* **The Importance of Endurance:** The use of "if they continue" (`{{G1437}}`, `{{G3306}}`) firmly ties the concept to a life of persistent faith. This underscores the biblical theme that true faith is an enduring faith that expresses itself through a consistent walk in love and holiness.
* **Holiness in Everyday Life:** By linking salvation to faith, love, and holiness within the context of **childbearing**, the passage illustrates that sanctification is not merely an abstract concept but is lived out in the practical, and sometimes difficult, duties of life. The call is to "Follow... holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord" [[Hebrews 12:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5042}}` is a term whose significance is entirely defined by its single, specific usage. While literally meaning **childbearing**, it functions as a backdrop to illustrate a larger theological point: salvation is evidenced by a life of ongoing faith, love, and practical holiness. It shows how even the most specific roles and duties are opportunities to live out the implications of one's relationship with God.
TRV