Brief Overview of πραγματεία (Strong’s G4230: pragmateia)

Strong’s G4230: A noun meaning “affairs,” “business,” or “occupation,” derived from pragma (deed, matter). Used in the New Testament specifically in Paul’s military metaphor warning against entanglement in civilian affairs. Emphasizes activities that can distract from spiritual service.

U- Unveiling the Word

Πραγματεία describes the activities and affairs of everyday life, particularly business or occupational matters. In its sole New Testament appearance, Paul uses it to illustrate how soldiers must avoid civilian entanglements to serve effectively, drawing a parallel with Christian service. Early church writers expanded this concept to discuss proper balance between worldly responsibilities and spiritual devotion. Today, it challenges believers to consider what activities might hinder their spiritual effectiveness.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πραγματεία, pragmateia, prag-ma-TEI-ah
• Detailed pronunciation: prahg-mah-TEE-ah (stress on third syllable)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• From πρᾶγμα (pragma) – deed, matter
• -εία (-eia) – abstract noun suffix
• Indicates engagement in activities

D – Defining Meanings

• Business affairs
• Occupation
• Everyday activities

Translation Options:

• “Affairs” – general activities
• “Business matters” – commercial emphasis
• “Occupations” – professional focus

E – Exploring Similar Words

• πρᾶγμα (pragma, PRAG-ma) – matter, deed – See G4229
• ἐμπορία (emporia, em-po-REE-ah) – trade – See G1711
• βιωτικός (biōtikos, bee-o-TEE-kos) – pertaining to life – See G982

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Morphological Features:

• Gender: Feminine
• Number: Singular/Plural
• Case: All cases possible
• Declension: 1st declension

Example morphological changes:

• Nominative: πραγματεία
• Genitive: πραγματείας
• Dative: πραγματείᾳ
• Accusative: πραγματείαν

Cross-references:

• Related verb: πραγματεύομαι (to do business)
• Related noun: πραγματευτής (businessman)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes business activities. Thayer’s notes military metaphor context. LSJ documents commercial usage. Vine’s highlights potential for distraction. Strong’s connects it to everyday affairs. LEH notes similar Septuagint concepts. Moulton and Milligan cite business documents.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
2 Timothy 2:4: “No man that warreth entangleth himself with the [πραγματεία] affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.”

Additional References:
This word appears only once in the New Testament, in 2 Timothy 2:4.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Πραγματεία reminds us to examine what activities might hinder our spiritual effectiveness. While not condemning legitimate work, it challenges us to maintain proper priorities. This word proclaims that following Christ requires intentional focus and freedom from unnecessary entanglements.

D – Did You Know?

1. The word was common in ancient business contracts.
2. Early monastics used it to discuss worldly renunciation.
3. It influenced Christian teaching about vocation.

Strong’s G4230: A noun meaning “affairs,” “business,” or “occupation,” derived from pragma (deed, matter). Used in the New Testament specifically in Paul’s military metaphor warning against entanglement in civilian affairs. Emphasizes activities that can distract from spiritual service.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: business, affairs, occupation, distractions, military metaphors, Christian service, priorities, devotion, focus, worldly matters​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​