The meaning of “κατοικέω”
Understanding katoikéō reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
dwell(-er), inhabitant(-ter). - to house permanently, i.e. reside (literally or figuratively)
κατοικέω
dwell(-er), inhabitant(-ter). - to house permanently, i.e. reside (literally or figuratively)
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 12:45 | “Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation.” Word: κατοικέω (katoikéō) | |
| Luke 13:4 | “Or those eighteen, upon whom the tower in Siloam fell, and slew them, think ye that they were sinners above all men that dwelt in Jerusalem?” Word: κατοικέω (katoikéō) | |
| Acts 9:22 | “But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ.” Word: κατοικέω (katoikéō) | |
| Ephesians 3:17 | “That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,” Word: κατοικέω (katoikéō) | |
| Colossians 2:9 | “For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.” Word: κατοικέω (katoikéō) |
Usage Statistics
Theological Word Study: Dwell
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: To dwell, tabernacle, sit
The Hebrew shakan (שָׁכַן) means to dwell or tabernacle—the root of Shekinah (divine presence). God promised 'I will dwell among the children of Israel, and will be their God' (Exodus 29:45).
New Testament Usage
Meaning: To dwell, remain, abide
The Greek katoikeo (κατοικέω) means to dwell or settle. 'In him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily' (Colossians 2:9). Christ dwells in believers' hearts by faith (Ephesians 3:17).