### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **diapragmateúomai**, represented by `{{G1281}}`, means to thoroughly occupy oneself or to earn in business, and is translated as **gain by trading**. This word is exceptionally specific, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting a very particular concept within its single context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G1281}}` is in [[Luke 19:15]]. The verse describes a nobleman who, after having received a kingdom and returned, commanded his servants to be brought to him. He had previously given them money, and his purpose was to **know** `{{G1097}}` how much each servant had **gained by trading** `{{G1281}}`. This context places the word squarely within a narrative of stewardship, investment, and accountability.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its biblical context illuminate the meaning of `{{G1281}}`:
* `{{G1401}}` **doûlos** (servant): The individuals expected to gain by trading are identified as **servants**. This word signifies a slave or bond-man, emphasizing their subjection to the nobleman who entrusted them with his money [[Luke 19:15]]. In a similar context, a faithful **servant** is praised by his lord [[Matthew 25:21]].
* `{{G1325}}` **dídōmi** (to give): This action is initiated because the nobleman **had given** `{{G1325}}` the money to the servants. The word has a wide application, from granting requests [[Matthew 7:7]] to God bestowing the ultimate gift of His Son [[John 3:16]].
* `{{G1097}}` **ginṓskō** (to know): The nobleman's goal was that he might **know** `{{G1097}}` the results of their trading. This word implies a deep or absolute knowledge, as seen in the desire to **know** God and the power of His resurrection [[Philippians 3:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1281}}` is tied to its singular, powerful context.
* **Faithful Stewardship:** The primary theme is accountability. The servants `{{G1401}}` are given money `{{G694}}` and are expected to produce a return. The act of "gaining by trading" is the measure of their faithfulness with what was entrusted to them.
* **Productive Activity:** The base definition, "to thoroughly occupy oneself," suggests that the expectation is not for passive preservation but for active, diligent work that yields a profit. The nobleman returns `{{G1880}}` specifically to assess this gain.
* **Ultimate Accountability:** The scenario in which the word is used—a master returning to his servants to see what they have produced—points toward a final reckoning. The purpose `{{G2443}}` of the summons is to **know** `{{G1097}}` the outcome of their efforts [[Luke 19:15]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G1281}}` is used only once, its meaning is significant. It describes not merely a business transaction but the concept of using divinely-given resources to produce a valuable return. The word **diapragmateúomai** encapsulates the principle of active, faithful, and accountable stewardship, where a **servant** `{{G1401}}` is expected to work diligently with what they have been **given** `{{G1325}}` in anticipation of the master's return.
TRV