### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **teleiótēs**, represented by `{{G5047}}`, defines a state of **completeness**, especially in a mental or moral sense, and is translated as **perfection** or **perfectness**. It appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible, indicating a very focused theological application. The term points to a state of moral completeness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G5047}}` points toward a goal of spiritual maturity. In [[Hebrews 6:1]], believers are encouraged to leave the foundational principles of the doctrine of **Christ** `{{G5547}}` and "go on unto **perfection**." This is contrasted with repeatedly laying a **foundation** `{{G2310}}` of repentance from dead works and faith toward God. In [[Colossians 3:14]], the word is directly linked to **charity** `{{G26}}`, which is described as "the bond of **perfectness**," identifying love as the key element that creates this state of completeness.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of **teleiótēs**:
* `{{G2310}}` **themélios** (something put down, i.e. a substruction (of a building, etc.), (literally or figuratively):--foundation): This is presented as the starting point from which one must advance toward **perfection**, rather than laying the **foundation** again [[Hebrews 6:1]].
* `{{G26}}` **agápē** (love, i.e. affection or benevolence; specially (plural) a love-feast:--(feast of) charity(-ably), dear, love): This is the essential virtue that constitutes perfectness. In [[Colossians 3:14]], **charity** is explicitly called the unifying "bond of perfectness."
* `{{G4886}}` **sýndesmos** (a joint tie, i.e. ligament, (figuratively) uniting principle, control:--band, bond): This word explains how love functions in relation to perfection, describing it as the **bond** or uniting principle that holds everything together in a state of completeness [[Colossians 3:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5047}}` centers on the nature of spiritual growth and maturity.
* **A Call to Progress:** The term is presented as a goal to be pursued. The command in [[Hebrews 6:1]] is to "go on unto **perfection**," signifying a forward movement beyond elementary principles like repentance from dead **works** `{{G2041}}`.
* **The Unifying Power of Love:** Perfection is not an abstract ideal but is realized through **charity** `{{G26}}`. [[Colossians 3:14]] establishes that love is the "uniting principle" that brings about the state of **perfectness**.
* **Maturity Beyond Fundamentals:** The concept of **perfection** in [[Hebrews 6:1]] requires moving beyond the "principles of the doctrine of Christ," such as **repentance** `{{G3341}}` and **faith** `{{G4102}}` toward God, indicating a deeper stage of spiritual life.
### Summary
In summary, **teleiótēs** `{{G5047}}`, though rare, provides a crucial concept of moral and spiritual **completeness**. It represents a call not to lay again the **foundation** `{{G2310}}` but to "go on unto **perfection**" [[Hebrews 6:1]]. This state of **perfectness** is ultimately held together by **charity** `{{G26}}`, which acts as its essential "bond" [[Colossians 3:14]]. Therefore, `{{G5047}}` defines an advanced state where believers are called to move from elementary truths to a completeness embodied in love.
TRV