### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **βασιλεία (basileía)**, represented by `{{G932}}`, is a central concept in scripture, denoting **royalty**, rule, or a realm. It appears **162 times** across **154 unique verses**. Its meaning encompasses both an abstract sense of rule and the concrete reality of a **kingdom**, whether literal or figurative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G932}}` is most frequently used to describe the "kingdom of God" or the "kingdom of heaven." This is not a physical territory but a spiritual reality. Entrance into this **kingdom** requires spiritual rebirth ([[John 3:3]], [[John 3:5]]) and repentance [[Matthew 3:2]]. Its nature is defined not by earthly things like food and drink, but by "righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost" [[Romans 14:17]]. Believers are described as being delivered from the power of darkness and translated into the **kingdom** of God's Son [[Colossians 1:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the concept of a kingdom:
* `{{G935}}` **basileús** (king): Derived from the same root, this word signifies a sovereign or ruler. The King is the one who ultimately invites the blessed to inherit the **kingdom** prepared for them [[Matthew 25:34]].
* `{{G936}}` **basileúō** (to reign): This verb means to rule as a king. It is prophesied that of Christ's **kingdom** there will be no end, and He shall **reign** forever ([[Revelation 11:15]], [[Luke 1:33]]).
* `{{G2362}}` **thrónos** (throne): This term for a stately seat represents the power and authority of a kingdom. The Son's **kingdom** is characterized by a "sceptre of righteousness" and a **throne** that is forever [[Hebrews 1:8]].
* `{{G1849}}` **exousía** (authority, power): This word denotes the delegated influence and mastery inherent in a kingdom. Believers are delivered from the **power** of darkness and brought into Christ's **kingdom** [[Colossians 1:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G932}}` is immense, framing the core message of the gospel.
* **The Gospel of the Kingdom:** The message preached by Jesus is explicitly called the "gospel of the **kingdom**" ([[Matthew 4:23]], [[Matthew 24:14]]), indicating that the good news is inseparable from the reality of God's rule and reign.
* **Requirements for Entry:** Scripture outlines clear conditions for entering the **kingdom**. It requires a conversion and humility like that of a little child [[Matthew 18:3]]. Conversely, the unrighteous, including fornicators, idolaters, and adulterers, will not inherit the **kingdom** of God ([[1 Corinthians 6:9]], [[Galatians 5:21]]).
* **A Present and Future Reality:** The **kingdom** is described as both a present and future state. It is "at hand" [[Mark 1:15]] and can be sought now [[Matthew 6:33]]. Yet, it is also a future inheritance that the righteous will receive [[Matthew 25:34]] and a heavenly **kingdom** into which believers will be preserved [[2 Timothy 4:18]].
* **Supreme Value:** The **kingdom** of heaven is portrayed as being of ultimate worth, likened to a treasure hidden in a field for which a man sells all he has to obtain [[Matthew 13:44]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G932}}` is far more than a political term. It is a foundational theological concept describing God's sovereign rule. It is the spiritual realm into which believers enter through faith, a present reality defined by righteousness and peace, and the ultimate future hope of an eternal **kingdom** under the reign of Christ. The pursuit of this **kingdom** is presented as the primary goal of the believer's life [[Matthew 6:33]].
TRV