Brief Overview of πράκτωρ (Strong’s G4233: praktōr)

Strong’s G4233: A noun meaning “officer” or “bailiff,” particularly one who collects debts or executes legal judgments. Used in Luke’s Gospel in the context of settling disputes, emphasizing the serious consequences of unresolved conflicts. Represents official authority in legal matters.

U- Unveiling the Word

Πράκτωρ describes an official who enforces legal judgments, particularly in debt collection. In Luke’s Gospel, Jesus uses this term in teaching about reconciliation, warning of the consequences of unresolved disputes. The word carried strong implications of authority and enforcement in Greco-Roman society. Early church writers used this image to discuss divine judgment and the importance of reconciliation. Today, it reminds us of both human justice systems and divine accountability.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πράκτωρ, praktōr, PRAK-tor
• Detailed pronunciation: PRAHK-tohr (stress on first syllable)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• From πράσσω (prassō) – to do, exact
• -τωρ (-tōr) – agent noun suffix
• Indicates one who executes actions

D – Defining Meanings

• Legal officer
• Debt collector
• Court bailiff

Translation Options:

• “Officer” – general authority
• “Bailiff” – legal context
• “Collector” – debt emphasis

E – Exploring Similar Words

• ὑπηρέτης (hupēretēs, hoo-pay-REH-tace) – officer – See G5257
• τελώνης (telōnēs, tel-OH-nace) – tax collector – See G5057
• κριτής (kritēs, kree-TACE) – judge – See G2923

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Morphological Features:

• Gender: Masculine
• Number: Singular/Plural
• Case: All cases possible
• Declension: 3rd declension

Example morphological changes:

• Nominative: πράκτωρ
• Genitive: πράκτορος
• Dative: πράκτορι
• Accusative: πράκτορα

Cross-references:

• Related verb: πράσσω (to exact)
• Related noun: πρᾶξις (action)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes legal enforcement role. Thayer’s notes debt collection function. LSJ documents official duties in Greek cities. Vine’s highlights judicial authority. Strong’s connects to practical execution of justice. Moulton and Milligan cite legal papyri.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
Luke 12:58: “When thou goest with thine adversary to the magistrate, as thou art in the way, give diligence that thou mayest be delivered from him; lest he hale thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the [πράκτωρ] officer, and the officer cast thee into prison.”

Additional References:
This word appears only in Luke 12:58.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Πράκτωρ reminds us that unresolved conflicts have consequences. Jesus uses this term to urge reconciliation before facing judgment, pointing to both earthly and divine justice. This word proclaims the importance of making peace while there is opportunity, reflecting God’s desire for reconciliation through Christ.

D – Did You Know?

1. Ancient Greek cities had official praktores for debt collection.
2. The role combined aspects of modern bailiffs and collection agents.
3. Early church writers used it as a metaphor for divine judgment.

Strong’s G4233: A noun meaning “officer” or “bailiff,” particularly one who collects debts or executes legal judgments. Used in Luke’s Gospel in the context of settling disputes, emphasizing the serious consequences of unresolved conflicts.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: officer, bailiff, judgment, debt collection, legal authority, reconciliation, Luke’s Gospel, justice, divine judgment, conflict resolution​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​