G3800

Unveiling the Word

The Greek word ὄψωνιον (opsōnion) primarily translates to “wages” or “payment,” especially in the context of compensation for work. This term reflects the economic and social structures of ancient societies, where labor and its remuneration were significant components of daily life. In Luke 3:14, the word appears in a dialogue about the moral obligations of soldiers concerning their earnings and the ethical implications of their actions regarding their wages. Understanding ὄψωνιον highlights the interrelationship between work, remuneration, and ethical behavior in both ancient and biblical contexts.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: ὄψωνιον (opsōnion), pronounced [op-SOH-nee-on].

Etymology: The term is derived from the root verb ὄψω (opso), which means “to cook” or “to prepare food.” This connection emphasizes the association of food and wages, as wages were often tied to food provisions in ancient economies.

Part of Speech: Noun; it refers specifically to a form of payment or compensation, usually for services rendered or work performed.

Defining Meanings

Primary Meaning: Wages; referring to the monetary compensation given to individuals for their labor or services.

Secondary Meaning: Provision or fare; in some contexts, it can imply the food or sustenance that is part of one’s payment, linking the idea of sustenance with economic transactions.

Tertiary Meaning: Earnings; this broader term encompasses all forms of compensation that can be received for work, including both monetary and non-monetary forms.

Exploring Similar Words

μισθός (misthos) [MIS-thos]: This term also means “wages” but can have a broader application, referring to any kind of payment for work or service, including rewards for good behavior or performance.

ἀμοιβή (amoibē) [a-MEE-bay]: This word translates to “reward” or “recompense,” emphasizing the concept of return for services rendered rather than merely payment for labor.

συναγωγή (synagōgē) [sin-a-GO-gay]: While this term generally refers to a gathering or assembly, it can sometimes imply a communal setting where earnings or wages may be discussed, particularly in the context of collective work.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Nouns:

• Case, Number, Gender: ὄψωνιον is in the nominative case, singular number, and neuter gender.

• Declension: It follows the rules of the second declension, which is typical for neuter nouns in Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The term ὄψωνιον is particularly relevant in New Testament contexts, where it emphasizes the ethical considerations of labor and remuneration. In Luke 3:14, John the Baptist addresses soldiers, urging them to be content with their wages and to act justly in their dealings. This usage highlights the moral responsibility that accompanies economic transactions, reflecting a broader biblical theme of justice and fairness in one’s vocation. Lexical sources reveal that this term not only pertains to monetary compensation but also carries implications about how one should conduct themselves in their labor.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

Luke 3:14: “And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages [ὄψωνιον].”

Matthew 20:8: “So when evening was come, the lord of the vineyard saith unto his steward, Call the labourers, and give them their hire [ὄψωνιον], beginning from the last unto the first.”

1 Timothy 5:18: “For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward [ὄψωνιον].”

Analyzing Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature, ὄψωνιον often relates to discussions around compensation and ethics.

Example 1: Plato, Republic: “The just man shall receive his ὄψωνιον and be honored for his labor in a society that values righteousness.”

Example 2: Xenophon, Memorabilia: “He who works diligently shall not only earn his ὄψωνιον but also earn the respect of his peers.”

Example 3: Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics: “A fair wage (ὄψωνιον) is vital for maintaining the social contract between labor and reward.”

Septuagint Example 1: Leviticus 19:13: “Thou shalt not defraud thy neighbour, neither rob him: the wages [ὄψωνιον] of him that is hired shall not abide with thee all night until the morning.”

Septuagint Example 2: Jeremiah 22:13: “Woe unto him that buildeth his house by unrighteousness, and his chambers by wrong; that useth his neighbour’s service without wages [ὄψωνιον], and giveth him not for his work.”

Septuagint Example 3: Ezekiel 18:8: “He that hath not given forth upon usury, neither hath taken any increase, that hath withdrawn his hand from iniquity, hath executed true judgment between man and man, shall not die for the iniquity of his father; he shall surely live: his bread shall be given him [ὄψωνιον].”

Noteworthy Summary

The term ὄψωνιον embodies the crucial relationship between labor and compensation, emphasizing not just the concept of wages but also the ethical implications of earning and spending. Its biblical usage serves as a reminder of the importance of fairness, justice, and integrity in economic transactions, reflecting a profound understanding of social responsibility.

Did You Know?

1. In ancient Greece, wages (ὄψωνιον) were often linked to social status, with higher earnings associated with skilled laborers and craftsmen.

2. The moral teachings surrounding ὄψωνιον in the New Testament emphasize fairness and integrity, urging workers to be just in their dealings.

3. The concept of wages transcends mere monetary value in biblical texts, encompassing ethical considerations about how one should treat others in their profession.

Strong’s G3800: ὄψωνιον (opsōnion) refers to “wages” or “provisions,” highlighting the ethical and social significance of labor compensation in both ancient and biblical contexts.