ἀβαρής – Pronunciation Guide: ah-bah-RACE

Basic Definition

Strong’s G4: Not burdensome; metaphorically referring to one who imposes no financial burden on others. The word specifically denotes being weightless or free from weight, and in context, refusing to be financially dependent on others.

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Etymology and Morphology

• Part of Speech: Adjective
• Compound word from:
• ἀ- (a-): negative prefix meaning “not” or “without”
• βάρος (baros): weight, burden, load

Morphology:

• ἀβαρής (abarēs) – nominative singular masculine/feminine
• ἀβαρές (abares) – nominative/accusative singular neuter
• ἀβαρῆ (abarē) – accusative singular masculine/feminine

Word Origin & History

The term ἀβαρής emerges from classical Greek physics and natural philosophy, where it described objects without weight or gravitational pull. Aristotle used it in his discussions of theoretical physics to describe the quality of being weightless or without heaviness.

In the Hellenistic period, the word took on more metaphorical meanings, particularly in ethical and philosophical discussions about not being a burden to others or society. This transition from physical to metaphorical meaning set the stage for its New Testament usage.

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, ἀβαρής appears only once, in 2 Corinthians 11:9, where Paul declares that he kept himself from being burdensome to the Corinthian church. This usage reflects Paul’s commitment to financial independence in his ministry, choosing to work with his own hands rather than rely on church support.

Key Passages:

• 2 Corinthians 11:9 – Paul’s declaration of maintaining financial independence
• 1 Thessalonians 2:9 – Related concept though different Greek word used
• 2 Thessalonians 3:8 – Similar theme of Paul’s work ethic

Cultural Insights

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, traveling philosophers and teachers typically expected financial support from their audiences. Paul’s choice to be ἀβαρής stood in stark contrast to these cultural norms, demonstrating his commitment to removing any potential barrier to the Gospel’s reception.

Theological Significance

Paul’s use of ἀβαρής reflects a profound theological principle of sacrificial ministry. By choosing to be “not burdensome,” he imitated the Messiah Jesus, Who though rich became poor for our sakes (2 Corinthians 8:9).

This principle demonstrates how the Gospel ministry should prioritize removing obstacles to faith over personal comfort or rights. It reveals God’s heart for ensuring His message reaches people unencumbered by financial considerations.

Personal Application

In our modern context, being ἀβαρής challenges us to consider how we might remove barriers that prevent others from receiving the Gospel. This might mean sacrificing personal rights or comforts for the sake of ministry effectiveness, whether in financial matters or other areas of life.

Related Words

• βάρος (baros) – weight, burden – See G922
• βαρέω (bareō) – to weigh down, burden – See G916
• ἐπιβαρέω (epibareō) – to put a burden on – See G1912

Did you Know?

• The concept of ἀβαρής influenced early Christian missionaries who often worked secular jobs while spreading the Gospel
• Modern Greek still uses this word in physics textbooks when discussing weightlessness in space
• The principle behind ἀβαρής influenced the development of “tentmaking” ministries, where missionaries support themselves through secular work

Remember This

Being ἀβαρής embodies the sacrificial nature of authentic Gospel ministry, where removing obstacles to faith takes precedence over personal rights and comfort.