G4139
πλησίον
(adverbially) close by; as noun, a neighbor, i.e. fellow (as man, countryman, Christian or friend)
Transliteration
plēsíonPronunciation
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(adverbially) close by; as noun, a neighbor, i.e. fellow (as man, countryman, Christian or friend)
πλησίον(plēsíon)
Strong’s Definition
(adverbially) close by; as noun, a neighbor, i.e. fellow (as man, countryman, Christian or friend)
neuter of a derivative of (near);
“Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.”
No verses found containing this word study ID.
Strong's G4139: An adverb used as a substantive meaning "neighbor" or "fellow person." From πέλας (near). In ancient Greek culture, it often referred to physical proximity. In New Testament usage, Jesus and the apostles expanded its meaning to include all people as potential neighbors deserving love and care.
U- Unveiling the Word
πλησίον represents a crucial theological concept in Scripture, transforming from mere physical proximity to spiritual and ethical responsibility. Jesus radically redefines this term in the parable of the Good Samaritan, extending its meaning beyond traditional Jewish boundaries. Early church fathers emphasized this expanded understanding, seeing it as fundamental to Christian ethics. Today, it continues to challenge believers to expand their circle of responsibility and love beyond conventional social boundaries.
N - Necessary Information
Etymology:
D - Defining Meanings
For compound words: Not a compound word, but functions adverbially or nominally
Translation Options:
E - Exploring Similar Words
See G1069
See G80
R - Reviewing the Word's Morphology
When used as a substantive:
When used adverbially:
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S - Studying Lexicon Insights
BDAG emphasizes its ethical implications. Thayer's notes its development from proximity to relationship. LSJ documents classical usage patterns. Vine's highlights Jesus's redefinition. Strong's connects it to nearness concepts. LEH provides Septuagint usage in ethical contexts. Moulton and Milligan cite everyday usage examples.
T - Tracing the Scriptures
First appearance:
"You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.'" Matthew 5:43
Additional References:
Matthew 19:19, Mark 12:31, Luke 10:27, Luke 10:29, Romans 13:9, Galatians 5:14, James 2:8
A - Analyzing Classical Usage
N - Noteworthy Summary
πλησίον embodies Jesus's radical redefinition of community and love. Through the gospel, all people become potential neighbors deserving of love and care. This word challenges us to extend Christ's love beyond comfortable boundaries, seeing every person as one whom God calls us to love as ourselves.
D - Did You Know?
Strong's G4139: An adverb used substantively to denote "neighbor" or "fellow person." Jesus transformed its meaning from physical proximity to ethical responsibility, making it central to Christian understanding of universal love and service.
Part of speech: Adverb used substantively
Tags: neighbor, love, ethics, Good Samaritan, Jesus's teachings, community, relationships, biblical Greek, social responsibility, universal love, Christian ethics, hospitality