### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **daneistḗs**, represented by `{{G1157}}`, is a specific term for a **lender** or **creditor**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its meaning is directly tied to the act of lending and the financial relationship between the one who gives a loan and the one who receives it.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{G1157}}` is found in a parable told by Jesus in the Gospel of Luke. Here, the story begins by establishing a scene involving "a certain **creditor** which had two debtors" [[Luke 7:41]]. The word is used to introduce the central figure of authority in the parable, the one to whom a debt is owed. This simple financial setup serves as the foundation for a profound lesson on forgiveness, gratitude, and love.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to frame the context in which `{{G1157}}` appears:
* `{{G5533}}` **chreōpheilétēs** (a loan-ower, i.e. indebted person:--debtor): This is the direct counterpart to `{{G1157}}`. In the parable, the creditor has two of these debtors, establishing the opposing roles in the financial relationship [[Luke 7:41]].
* `{{G3784}}` **opheílō** (to owe (pecuniarily); figuratively, to be under obligation): This verb describes the state of being indebted to the creditor. While it describes a monetary debt in [[Luke 7:41]], it is used elsewhere to convey a moral or spiritual duty, such as the obligation believers are bound by to give thanks to God [[2 Thessalonians 2:13]].
* `{{G5100}}` **tìs** (some or any person or object): This indefinite pronoun introduces the **creditor** as "a certain creditor" [[Luke 7:41]], framing the account as an illustrative story rather than a specific historical event.
* `{{G2258}}` **ēn** (I (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)): This simple verb of being sets the stage for the parable, stating that "There **was** a certain creditor" [[Luke 7:41]], indicating the existence of the characters in the story.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1157}}` is derived entirely from its role in Jesus' parable about debt and forgiveness.
* **Metaphor for Divine Authority:** The creditor `{{G1157}}` functions as a metaphor for God. As the one who holds the debt, the creditor has the sole authority to forgive it, which directly parallels the theological concept of God's exclusive power to forgive sin.
* **Basis for Forgiveness:** The existence of a creditor is the necessary premise for the story's lesson on forgiveness. The entire parable hinges on the actions of this figure toward those who owe him a debt they cannot pay.
* **Illustrating Obligation:** The relationship between the creditor `{{G1157}}` and the debtors `{{G5533}}` highlights the nature of obligation. This concept is broadened by the related word `{{G3784}}`, which shows that believers also have duties they ought to perform, such as bearing the infirmities of the weak [[Romans 15:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1157}}` is a precise term for a **creditor**. Although it is used only once in scripture, its placement in the parable of the two debtors is crucial. It establishes the figure of authority whose actions illustrate the principles of sin, debt, and divine grace. The word works in concert with its counterparts—debtor `{{G5533}}` and to owe `{{G3784}}`—to create a simple, relatable scenario that Jesus uses to teach a deep spiritual truth about forgiveness.
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