from δέω; a slave (literal or figurative, involuntary or voluntary; frequently, therefore in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency):--bond(-man), servant.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **doûlos**, represented by `{{G1401}}`, is a primary term for a **servant** or **slave**. Appearing 127 times in 119 verses, its meaning encompasses a state of subjection that can be literal or figurative, as well as involuntary or voluntary. This word is foundational to understanding concepts of bondage, humility, and devotion in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1401}}` is used in several key contexts. It describes a literal social and legal status, frequently contrasted with the **free** [[Galatians 3:28]]. Christ himself took on "the form of a **servant**" as the ultimate act of humility [[Philippians 2:7]]. The term is also prominent in parables, where Jesus illustrates principles of faithfulness and accountability through the actions of **servants** and their masters [[Matthew 25:21]]. Critically, apostles such as Paul, James, and Peter adopt this title, identifying themselves as a "**servant** of Jesus Christ" or a "**servant** of God," transforming it into a designation of honor and absolute commitment ([[Romans 1:1]], [[James 1:1]], [[2 Peter 1:1]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the scope and context of **doûlos**:
* `{{G2962}}` **kýrios** (Master): This is the direct counterpart to **doûlos**, signifying the one with supreme authority. The relationship is often highlighted, as in the teaching, "The **servant** is not greater than his **lord**" [[John 13:16]].
* `{{G1203}}` **despótēs** (an absolute ruler): This term for "master" emphasizes absolute ownership and authority, used in instructions for **servants** to show honor to their **masters** [[1 Timothy 6:1]].
* `{{G1658}}` **eleútheros** (free): This word stands in direct opposition to **doûlos**, creating a crucial dichotomy between bondage and freedom. Paul employs this contrast to declare that in Christ, social distinctions such as "**bond** nor **free**" are eliminated [[Colossians 3:11]].
* `{{G1402}}` **doulóō** (to enslave): As the verb form, this word describes the process of being brought into bondage. It is used to explain how a person can be "brought in bondage" to corruption [[2 Peter 2:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1401}}` is immense, shaping core Christian doctrines.
* **Bondage to Sin:** The term is used to describe humanity's natural state as being a "**servant** of sin" ([[John 8:34]], [[Romans 6:17]]). This form of servitude leads to death.
* **Servanthood to God:** In contrast, believers are called to yield themselves as **servants** to righteousness and to God ([[Romans 6:16]], [[1 Peter 2:16]]). This is a willing submission that leads to holiness and life.
* **Christ's Example:** The ultimate model for a **doûlos** is Christ himself, who "took upon him the form of a **servant**" [[Philippians 2:7]]. His action redefines servanthood not as a mark of low status but as the highest expression of love and obedience.
* **Identity and Relationship:** While believers are called **servants** of God, this is not the final state of their relationship. Christ elevates his followers from **servants** to "friends" [[John 15:15]], and Paul explains that through Christ, a believer is "no more a **servant**, but a son" [[Galatians 4:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1401}}` is far more than a simple social descriptor. It is a powerful theological term that charts the journey of a believer from bondage to sin to willing devotion to God. It finds its ultimate meaning in the humility of Christ, who became a **servant** to redeem humanity. The word **doûlos** illustrates a profound paradox: that in becoming a voluntary **servant** of Christ, one finds true freedom and is ultimately adopted as a child of God.
TRV