### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word ἔκγονον (ékgonon), Strong's G1549, is a neuter noun derived from a compound of the preposition ἐκ (ek), meaning "out of" or "from," and the verb γίνομαι (ginomai), meaning "to become" or "to come into being." Etymologically, it denotes "that which has come forth from" or "that which is born from." Its core meaning is "a descendant," with a particular emphasis on a more distant generation than immediate offspring. Specifically, its semantic range narrows to "grandchild." The older English translation "nephew," found in some versions, reflects an archaic usage of that term which could encompass a descendant or grandchild, rather than its modern meaning of a sibling's son. Thus, the primary and most accurate understanding in contemporary English is "grandchild."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἔκγονον (ékgonon) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[1 Timothy 5:4]]. This verse is part of a larger discourse by the Apostle Paul concerning the care of widows within the early Christian community. Paul instructs, "But if any widow has children or grandchildren, let them first learn to show godliness to their own household and to make some return to their parents, for this is pleasing in the sight of God."
In this context, the inclusion of "grandchildren" (ἔκγονον) alongside "children" (τέκνον) underscores the comprehensive nature of familial responsibility. Paul's directive emphasizes that the primary duty of care for elderly widows rests with their immediate and extended family members. The church's responsibility is presented as secondary, only to be engaged when the family network is absent or unable to provide support. The phrase "to show godliness to their own household and to make some return to their parents" highlights the reciprocal nature of filial piety and care, extending beyond the direct parent-child relationship to include the next generation. This specific usage of ἔκγονον reinforces the importance of multi-generational family cohesion and mutual support as a practical expression of faith.
### Related Words & Concepts
The etymological components of ἔκγονον link it to several important Greek terms:
* **ἐκ (ek) `{{G1537}}`**: This preposition signifies origin, separation, or emergence "out of" something, reinforcing the idea of lineage.
* **γίνομαι (ginomai) `{{G1096}}`**: This verb denotes coming into being, being born, or becoming, directly relating to the concept of generation and offspring.
Other related terms that speak to the broader concept of family and descendants include:
* **τέκνον (teknon) `{{G5043}}`**: "Child," a more general term for offspring, often used in conjunction with ἔκγονον in [[1 Timothy 5:4]] to denote the immediate generation.
* **σπέρμα (sperma) `{{G4690}}`**: "Seed" or "offspring," frequently used in the Old and New Testaments to refer to descendants, often with a theological or covenantal significance.
* **γένος (genos) `{{G1085}}`**: "Race," "kind," or "offspring," referring to a broader lineage or family line.
The concept embedded in ἔκγονον is also closely tied to the biblical emphasis on family structure, inheritance, and the passing down of faith and responsibility through generations.
### Theological Significance
While ἔκγονον (ékgonon) is not a word with an inherent deep theological meaning in isolation, its sole appearance in [[1 Timothy 5:4]] carries significant theological implications regarding the practical outworking of Christian faith within the family and the church.
1. **Familial Piety and Responsibility:** The instruction for children and grandchildren to care for their widowed relatives ("to show godliness to their own household") underscores the biblical principle of familial responsibility. This is not merely a social custom but an act of "godliness" (εὐσέβεια - eusebeia), indicating that caring for one's own kin is a tangible expression of faith and reverence towards God. It reflects the fifth commandment to "honor your father and your mother" (e.g., [[Exodus 20:12]], [[Ephesians 6:2]]), extending this honor to the care of elders.
2. **Church Order and Benevolence:** The passage delineates the boundaries of the early church's benevolent efforts. The church's resources are not to be indiscriminately applied, but rather are reserved for those truly without family support. This principle ensures responsible stewardship of church resources and reinforces the family as the primary unit of care, aligning with divine order.
3. **Intergenerational Faith:** The mention of "grandchildren" implicitly acknowledges the importance of intergenerational relationships within the Christian household. The family unit is presented as a crucial context for learning and practicing faith, where piety is not just taught but lived out through acts of love and responsibility across generations. This reinforces the continuity of faith from one generation to the next.
### Summary
The Greek word ἔκγονον (ékgonon), G1549, precisely denotes a "descendant," specifically a "grandchild." Its singular occurrence in [[1 Timothy 5:4]] provides crucial insight into the early church's understanding of family responsibility and church order. In this passage, ἔκγονον highlights the multi-generational duty of children and grandchildren to care for their widowed relatives, framing this act as an essential expression of "godliness." This usage underscores the theological significance of familial piety, the proper stewardship of church resources, and the vital role of intergenerational relationships in living out Christian faith. The word, therefore, serves as a key component in Paul's practical instructions for maintaining order and demonstrating love within the Christian community.
TRV