### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hairéomai**, represented by `{{G138}}`, means **to take for oneself** or **to prefer**, and is translated as **choose**. Though it only appears **4 times** across **3 unique verses**, its usage points to significant moments of divine and human decision-making. The word signifies a deliberate selection based on preference or purpose.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{G138}}` highlights critical choices. It is used to describe God's sovereign action, who from the **beginning** has **chosen** believers for **salvation** [[2 Thessalonians 2:13]]. It also depicts a profound human choice, as when Moses was **choosing** to suffer affliction with the people of God rather than enjoy the temporary pleasures of sin [[Hebrews 11:25]]. In another context, the Apostle Paul expresses a personal dilemma where he does not know what he shall **choose** between living and dying [[Philippians 1:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and consequences of the choices made:
* `{{G4778}}` **synkakouchéō** (suffer affliction with): This term describes the difficult path Moses chose, highlighting that his preference was for solidarity in hardship with God's people over personal ease [[Hebrews 11:25]].
* `{{G4991}}` **sōtēría** (salvation): This is the ultimate goal of God's choice for believers, defining the purpose of His divine preference [[2 Thessalonians 2:13]].
* `{{G619}}` **apólausis** (enjoyment): This word represents what is rejected in favor of a higher calling, as seen in the choice to forego the **enjoyment** of sinful pleasures [[Hebrews 11:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G138}}` is significant despite its infrequent use. It underscores key doctrinal concepts:
* **Divine Election:** The word is used to express God's initiative in redemption, as He is the one who has **chosen** His people for **salvation** through **sanctification** of the Spirit and **belief** in the truth [[2 Thessalonians 2:13]].
* **Faith-Based Preference:** The act of **choosing** is presented as an outworking of faith. Moses's choice to **suffer affliction** was a tangible expression of his belief in God's promises over the immediate reality of worldly pleasure [[Hebrews 11:25]].
* **The Cost of Discipleship:** The use of `{{G138}}` in contexts of suffering and difficult decisions illustrates that following God involves deliberate, often sacrificial, choices.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G138}}` conveys the powerful concept of a deliberate choice. Whether describing God's foundational act of **choosing** believers for salvation or a faithful individual's decision to prefer hardship with God's people, the word highlights a purposeful selection. It reveals that both divine sovereignty and human responsibility are expressed through decisive acts of preference.
TRV