### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **choïkós**, represented by `{{G5517}}`, means **earthy**. Derived from a word for dust, it describes something that is dusty, dirty, or soil-like. It appears **4 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively within a single chapter.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical context, `{{G5517}}` is used to draw a sharp contrast between humanity's natural state and its glorified, future state. It describes the "first man" as being "of the earth, **earthy**" [[1 Corinthians 15:47]], directly linking him to a terrestrial origin. This quality is then extended to others, stating, "As is the **earthy**, such are they also that are **earthy**" [[1 Corinthians 15:48]]. The concept concludes by contrasting the past and future, noting that just as believers "have borne the image of the **earthy**," they will also bear the image of the heavenly [[1 Corinthians 15:49]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G5517}}` by establishing the contrast between the terrestrial and the celestial:
* `{{G1093}}` **gē** (earth): This word for **soil** or the **terrene globe** is the conceptual root of what it means to be earthy. It is the realm where God's will is to be done [[Matthew 6:10]].
* `{{G2032}}` **epouránios** (heavenly): As the direct opposite of earthy, this term means **above the sky**. It is used to describe the nature of the "second man" [[1 Corinthians 15:48]] and the source of the believer's calling [[Hebrews 3:1]].
* `{{G1504}}` **eikṓn** (image): Meaning a **likeness** or **resemblance**, this word is key to understanding the application of earthy. Believers bear the **image** of the earthy man [[1 Corinthians 15:49]], just as Christ is the **image** of the invisible God [[Colossians 1:15]].
* `{{G5409}}` **phoréō** (bear, wear): Defined as to **wear as clothing or a constant accompaniment**, this verb describes how humanity has carried the image of the earthy, implying a nature that is worn until it is replaced [[1 Corinthians 15:49]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5517}}` is concentrated in its comparison between the two Adams and the two humanities they represent.
* **Terrestrial Origin:** The term establishes the nature of the first man, who is "of the earth, **earthy**" [[1 Corinthians 15:47]]. This defines his physical and perishable state.
* **Inherited Nature:** The state of being **earthy** is presented as a shared identity. Those who are in the lineage of the first man are also described as **earthy** [[1 Corinthians 15:48]].
* **Promised Transformation:** The ultimate significance of `{{G5517}}` is found in the hope of change. While believers have "borne the image of the **earthy**," there is a promise that they "shall also bear the image of the heavenly" [[1 Corinthians 15:49]], moving from a perishable nature to an imperishable one.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5517}}` is a specific and potent term used to define the nature of humanity in its natural, fallen state. It is not merely a word for "dirty" but a theological descriptor for a being made from the dust. Its full meaning is revealed through its direct contrast with the "heavenly" `{{G2032}}`, highlighting the profound transformation from the first Adam's likeness to the second Adam's likeness.
TRV