Brief Overview of σκηνόω (Strong’s G4637: skēnoō)
Strong’s G4637: A verb meaning “to pitch a tent” or “to dwell,” used profoundly in John’s Gospel to describe the incarnation – “The Word became flesh and dwelt (tabernacled) among us.” Connects Jesus’ earthly presence with God’s dwelling among Israel in the tabernacle.
U- Unveiling the Word
Σκηνόω carries immense theological significance, especially in its description of the incarnation. The word deliberately echoes God’s presence in the wilderness tabernacle, now fulfilled in Christ’s dwelling among humanity. In John’s writings, it appears both in reference to the incarnation and in eschatological contexts describing God’s ultimate dwelling with His people. Early church fathers saw this term as crucial in understanding both Christ’s human nature and God’s desire for intimate communion with His people. Today, it continues to express the profound reality of God’s presence among His people.
N – Necessary Information
- Greek Word: σκηνόω, skēnoō, skay-NO-o
- Detailed Pronunciation: σκη (skay) νό (NO) ω (o) – stress on second syllable
- Part of Speech: Verb
Etymology:
- From σκηνή (tent, tabernacle)
- -όω verb suffix indicating “to make” or “to be”
- Related to Hebrew שָׁכַן (shakan, to dwell)
D – Defining Meanings
- To pitch tent
- To tabernacle
- To dwell temporarily
- To take up residence
Translation Options:
- To dwell – emphasizing presence
- To tabernacle – highlighting sacred presence
- To pitch tent – preserving literal meaning
E – Exploring Similar Words
- κατοικέω (katoikeō, kat-oy-KEH-o) – See G2730: To dwell permanently
- οἰκέω (oikeō, oy-KEH-o) – See G3611: To inhabit
- παροικέω (paroikeō, par-oy-KEH-o) – See G3939: To sojourn
R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
- Tense: Present, Future, Aorist
- Voice: Active
- Mood: Indicative, Participle
- Person and Number: All forms possible
Examples:
Present: σκηνῶ (I dwell)
Future: σκηνώσω (I will dwell)
Aorist: ἐσκήνωσα (I dwelt)
S – Studying Lexicon Insights
BDAG emphasizes its theological significance in John. Thayer’s notes its connection to divine presence. LSJ documents its literal usage in classical texts. Vine’s highlights its importance in incarnational theology. Moulton and Milligan cite examples from religious contexts.
T – Tracing the Scriptures
First appearance:
John 1:14: “The Word became flesh and [dwelt] [σκηνόω] among us.”
Additional References:
Revelation 7:15, Revelation 12:12, Revelation 13:6, Revelation 21:3
A – Analyzing Classical Usage
| Author: Work | Text |
|---|---|
| Xenophon: Anabasis | “The army [pitched camp] [σκηνόω] near the river.” |
| Thucydides: History | “The people [dwelt] [σκηνόω] in temporary shelters.” |
| Plutarch: Lives | “They [made their dwelling] [σκηνόω] in the conquered territory.” |
N – Noteworthy Summary
Σκηνόω beautifully expresses the wonder of the incarnation – God making His dwelling among us. From Christ’s earthly ministry to the eternal state, it proclaims the good news that King Jesus desires to dwell with His people, fulfilling the tabernacle’s promise of God’s presence.
D – Did You Know?
- The word intentionally echoes the Hebrew mishkan (tabernacle)
- Used only by John in the New Testament
- Forms an inclusio between incarnation (John) and new creation (Revelation)
Strong’s G4637: A verb meaning “to pitch a tent” or “to dwell,” used profoundly in John’s Gospel to describe the incarnation – “The Word became flesh and dwelt (tabernacled) among us.” Connects Jesus’ earthly presence with God’s dwelling among Israel in the tabernacle.
Part of speech: Verb
Tags: incarnation, dwelling, tabernacle, presence, john, revelation, divine-presence, gods-dwelling, temporary-dwelling, jesus, eternal-dwelling, shekinah
Note: While this entry strives for accuracy, readers engaged in critical research should verify citations and keyword occurrences in their Bible translation of choice. For Biblical citations, the F.O.G Bible project recommends Logos Bible software.
