### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **βίωσις (bíōsis)**, represented by `{{G981}}`, refers to a **manner of life**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The term derives from a word meaning 'living' and implies a specific mode or act of living, essentially a person's conduct or history.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G981}}` is found in the book of Acts, during Paul's defense before King Agrippa. He states, "My **manner of life** from my youth, which was at the first among mine own nation at Jerusalem, know all the Jews" [[Acts 26:4]]. In this context, Paul is referring to his public and observable conduct from his early years. He establishes that his past life was well-known, providing a baseline for the testimony of his dramatic conversion that he is about to share.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the surrounding text of its single appearance help clarify its meaning:
* `{{G3503}}` **neótēs** (youth): This word, meaning "newness, i.e. youthfulness," specifies the time period of the "manner of life" Paul is describing. He stresses that his conduct was known from his **youth** [[Acts 26:4]].
* `{{G1484}}` **éthnos** (nation): Defined as "a race... a tribe," this term establishes the social context for Paul's `bíōsis`. His life was lived publicly "among mine own **nation** at Jerusalem" [[Acts 26:4]].
* `{{G746}}` **archḗ** (beginning): This term, meaning "a commencement," points to the starting point of Paul's observable life. His conduct was known from "the **first**" [[Acts 26:4]], establishing a long and consistent history.
* `{{G2467}}` **ísēmi** (to know): This verb, meaning "to know," is crucial to Paul's point. He asserts that his past "manner of life" is something the Jews already **know** [[Acts 26:4]], making his testimony verifiable.
### Theological Significance
While appearing only once, the concept behind `{{G981}}` carries significant weight. It underscores the importance of a person's lived-out history.
* **A Public Witness:** Paul's appeal to his past `bíōsis` demonstrates that a person's public conduct serves as a form of testimony. His well-known "manner of life" as a zealous Jew makes the story of his transformation even more powerful [[Acts 26:4]].
* **Foundation for Transformation:** By establishing his former "manner of life," Paul sets a foundation to explain the radical change God worked in him. The `bíōsis` he describes is the "old" that contrasts with the new reality he now lives.
* **Observable History:** The term emphasizes a life that is seen and known by a community. Paul's life was not lived in secret, and he uses this shared knowledge as common ground in his defense [[Acts 26:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G981}}` is a precise term for one's **manner of life** or observable conduct. Its single, powerful use in [[Acts 26:4]] illustrates how a person's public history and upbringing can serve as the backdrop for a profound story of divine transformation. It captures the reality of a life known by others, making the subsequent change brought about by faith all the more evident and compelling.
TRV