Brief Overview of περιούσιος (Strong’s G4041: periousios)

Strong’s G4041: A unique adjective derived from περί (around, beyond) and οὐσία (being, substance), meaning “special possession, peculiar treasure.” Used to describe God’s chosen people as His special possession, emphasizing their distinct identity and privileged relationship with Him.

U- Unveiling the Word

Περιούσιος represents unique ownership and special possession. Combining concepts of abundance (περί) with essential being (οὐσία), it describes something set apart as a treasured possession. In the New Testament, it appears uniquely in Titus, describing Christ’s redeemed people as His special possession. The word carries profound theological significance, echoing Old Testament descriptions of Israel as God’s treasured possession and applying this status to the church. Early church writers used it to emphasize believers’ distinct identity and calling. Today, it reminds Christians of their privileged position and responsibility as God’s special people.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: περιούσιος, periousios, [peh-ree-OO-see-os]
• Detailed pronunciation: peh-ree-OO-see-os (stress on third syllable)
• Part of Speech: Adjective

Etymology:

• περί (peri-): prefix meaning “beyond, exceeding”
• οὐσία (ousia): root noun meaning “being, substance”
• -ος (-os): adjectival ending
• Combined meaning: exceeding ordinary possession

D – Defining Meanings

• Special possession
• Peculiar treasure
• Chosen property

For compound words: The prefix περί adds “exceeding” to οὐσία “being,” creating the concept of extraordinary possession

Translation Options:

1. Special possession – Modern equivalent
2. Treasured people – Functional equivalent
3. Peculiar people – Traditional rendering

E – Exploring Similar Words

• ἐξαίρετος [exairetos, ex-AI-reh-tos] – chosen, select
• ἐκλεκτός [eklektos, ek-lek-TOS] – chosen, elect
• ἴδιος [idios, EE-dee-os] – one’s own, private

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Adjectival Features:

• Case: Nominative, Accusative
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Gender: Masculine, Feminine, Neuter
• Declension: Second declension

Examples:

• Masculine: περιούσιος
• Feminine: περιουσία
• Neuter: περιούσιον

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its unique theological significance. Thayer’s connects it to OT covenant language. LSJ notes its rare usage. Vine’s highlights its special relationship connotations. Strong’s emphasizes abundance beyond others. Moulton and Milligan document its special property implications.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:

“Who gave Himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for Himself a [peculiar] people, zealous for good works.” (Titus 2:14)

Additional References:
None

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Περιούσιος powerfully illustrates believers’ unique relationship with Christ. As His special possession, purchased by His blood, we are set apart for His purposes. This promotes the good news of King Jesus by highlighting both the privilege and responsibility of belonging to Him.

D – Did You Know?

1. Rare in classical Greek but common in Septuagint
2. Used in ancient property documents for special holdings
3. Influenced early church identity formation

Strong’s G4041: Unique adjective describing God’s special possession or treasured people. Used specifically of Christ’s redeemed church, emphasizing their distinct identity and privileged relationship with Him. Echoes Old Testament covenant language.

Part of speech: Adjective

Tags: #SpecialPossession #Identity #Covenant #Church #BiblicalGreek #Redemption #Election #Belonging #PaulineTheology #GodsPeople​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​