### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **basileúō**, represented by `{{G936}}`, means **to rule** or **reign**. Derived from the word for king, `{{G935}}` `basileús`, it appears **23 times** across **18 unique verses**. It is used to describe the rule of earthly kings, the dominion of abstract forces like sin and death, and the ultimate, eternal reign of God and Christ.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G936}}` is applied in several distinct contexts. It can refer to the literal rule of a human monarch, such as when Archelaus was said to `reign` in Judaea [[Matthew 2:22]]. It is also used figuratively to describe the power of abstract concepts. Paul explains that "death `reigned` from Adam to Moses" [[Romans 5:14]] and warns believers not to let "sin therefore `reign` in your mortal body" [[Romans 6:12]]. Most significantly, it describes the divine and eternal rule of Christ, who "shall `reign` for ever and ever" [[Revelation 11:15]], and the shared reign of the saints, who "lived and `reigned` with Christ a thousand years" [[Revelation 20:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of reigning and authority:
* `{{G935}}` **basileús** (king): The root of `basileúō`, this noun refers to `a sovereign`. It identifies the one who exercises the reign, such as the "King of kings" [[1 Timothy 6:15]].
* `{{G932}}` **basileía** (kingdom): This term defines the `realm` or royalty itself. It is the territory or sphere of a king's rule, as in the promise that of Christ's `kingdom` there shall be no end [[Luke 1:33]].
* `{{G2961}}` **kyrieúō** (to rule): This verb means `to have dominion over`. It is used in parallel contexts, such as the assurance that sin will not `have dominion over` believers [[Romans 6:14]].
* `{{G2190}}` **echthrós** (enemy): This word describes an `adversary`. It defines those who stand in opposition to a king's rule, and who must be put under Christ's feet as he `reigns` [[1 Corinthians 15:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G936}}` is central to the gospel narrative of redemption and eschatology.
* **The Reign of Hostile Powers:** Scripture establishes that, due to the fall, "sin `hath reigned` unto death" [[Romans 5:21]]. This reign of death [[Romans 5:17]] signifies humanity's state of bondage before Christ.
* **The Reign of Christ:** The New Testament proclaims the transfer of authority to Christ. He must `reign` until all enemies are defeated [[1 Corinthians 15:25]], and his eternal rule is celebrated when the "Lord God omnipotent `reigneth`" [[Revelation 19:6]].
* **The Reign of Believers:** A key promise to the redeemed is that they will participate in this rule. Those who receive grace "shall `reign` in life" [[Romans 5:17]]. This culminates in the promise that the saints will be priests of God and Christ and "shall `reign` with him" [[Revelation 20:6]] and "shall `reign` for ever and ever" [[Revelation 22:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G936}}` is a powerful verb that charts the transition of dominion. It moves from describing the temporal power of earthly rulers and the oppressive rule of sin and death to the absolute and eternal authority of Jesus Christ. Ultimately, it conveys the promise that believers, once subject to sin's reign, are destined to `reign` with Christ in life and for eternity.
TRV