### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **basíleios**, represented by `{{G934}}`, means **kingly** or **royal** in nature. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its singular use provides a specific and powerful description of the status conferred upon believers.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G934}}` is in [[1 Peter 2:9]], where it modifies the word "priesthood" to form the distinctive title "**royal** priesthood." This verse establishes a new identity for believers, describing them as "a chosen generation, a **royal** priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people." The use of **royal** here elevates the nature of their priestly role, indicating that it possesses a kingly quality.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words from its context in [[1 Peter 2:9]] help to define the community that holds this royal status:
* `{{G2406}}` **hieráteuma** (the priestly fraternity, i.e. sacerdotal order (figuratively):--priesthood): This is the direct subject of the word **royal**. Believers are not just individuals but are collectively a **priesthood** [[1 Peter 2:9]], a spiritual house built up for service [[1 Peter 2:5]].
* `{{G40}}` **hágios** (sacred... consecrated): This term describes the community as **holy**, set apart for God's purposes. It is used to describe both the "holy **priesthood**" [[1 Peter 2:5]] and the "**holy** nation" [[1 Peter 2:9]].
* `{{G1484}}` **éthnos** (a race... a tribe... --Gentile, heathen, nation, people): Believers are identified as a unified body, a "**nation**" that is holy and set apart [[1 Peter 2:9]].
* `{{G2992}}` **laós** (a people (in general...):--people): This reinforces the corporate identity of believers as God's own **people**, called to declare His praises [[1 Peter 2:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G934}}` is concentrated in its single, impactful use. It defines a core aspect of the believer's identity in Christ.
* **A Kingly Status:** The term **royal** directly bestows a kingly nature upon the believers' calling. They are part of a priesthood that is associated with the King.
* **A Unified Identity:** The phrase "**royal** priesthood" in [[1 Peter 2:9]] combines the concepts of kingly authority and priestly service, showing that these two roles are united in the identity of the church.
* **A Divine Purpose:** This royal and priestly community is called for a specific reason: "that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light" [[1 Peter 2:9]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G934}}` appears only once, its significance is immense. The word **basíleios** defines the believers' corporate identity as a "**royal** priesthood." It transforms the understanding of their status, elevating it from mere service to a holy, kingly calling with a divine purpose.