probably from the alternate of ἔρχομαι; unrestrained (to go at pleasure), i.e. (as a citizen) not a slave (whether freeborn or manumitted), or (genitive case) exempt (from obligation or liability):--free (man, woman), at liberty.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **eleútheros**, represented by `{{G1658}}`, means to be **unrestrained**, **not a slave**, or **exempt** from an obligation or liability. It appears **23 times** across **23 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is used to describe both a literal social status, contrasting a **free** person with a slave, and a metaphorical state of being liberated from spiritual, legal, or ceremonial constraints.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1658}}` is frequently used to erase social and ethnic barriers within the body of Christ, as seen in the declaration that there is "neither bond nor **free**" ([[Galatians 3:28]], [[Colossians 3:11]]). This contrast between the **free** and the enslaved appears in various contexts, from lists of people in Revelation ([[Revelation 6:15]], [[Revelation 13:16]]) to Paul's discussion on spiritual gifts [[1 Corinthians 12:13]]. The word also signifies a legal or ceremonial exemption; for instance, a widow is considered **free** from the law of her husband after his death [[Romans 7:3]]. In an important allegory, the term distinguishes between the children of the "bondwoman" and the "freewoman," representing two covenants [[Galatians 4:30]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of freedom and its opposite, bondage:
* `{{G1401}}` **doûlos** (bond(-man), servant): As the direct antonym, this word for a **slave** or **servant** is frequently contrasted with `{{G1658}}` to emphasize that in Christ, social status is irrelevant ([[Galatians 3:28]], [[Colossians 3:11]]).
* `{{G1657}}` **eleuthería** (liberty): This noun form signifies the state of **freedom** that believers are called to [[Galatians 5:13]]. It is the state found where the Spirit of the Lord is [[2 Corinthians 3:17]] and is not to be used as an occasion for the flesh [[1 Peter 2:16]].
* `{{G1659}}` **eleutheróō** (deliver, make free): This verb means **to liberate** and describes the divine action that brings about freedom. The Son makes one **free** [[John 8:36]], and believers have been **made free** from sin [[Romans 6:22]].
* `{{G1210}}` **déō** (to bind): This term provides a conceptual contrast to freedom. A wife is **bound** by law to her husband while he lives [[1 Corinthians 7:39]], but is free upon his death, illustrating a release from legal binding.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1658}}` is profound, redefining freedom in a spiritual context.
* **Equality in the Body of Christ:** The term is central to the apostolic teaching that earthly distinctions are nullified in Christ. In him, there is "neither bond nor **free**," establishing a radical new basis for community and identity ([[Galatians 3:28]], [[Colossians 3:11]]).
* **Liberation from Sin and Law:** True freedom is presented not as a social or political status, but as a spiritual reality granted by Christ. Jesus states that if the Son makes someone **free**, they "shall be **free** indeed" [[John 8:36]]. This freedom is specifically from the bondage of sin, as those who were servants of sin were once **free** from righteousness [[Romans 6:20]].
* **Freedom for Service:** Paradoxically, spiritual freedom in the New Testament is not an end in itself but enables a new form of servitude. Believers are instructed to live as **free**, yet as "the servants of God" [[1 Peter 2:16]]. Paul embodies this by being **free** from all, yet making himself a servant to all to win them for Christ [[1 Corinthians 9:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1658}}` **eleútheros** moves beyond a simple definition of social status. It serves as a critical term that contrasts the state of a **slave** with that of one who is unrestrained, both literally and figuratively. From establishing legal exemption in marriage law to underpinning the profound theological truth that all are one in Christ, the word carries significant weight. Ultimately, it illustrates the biblical concept that true freedom is not the absence of restraint, but a liberation from sin and law to willingly become a servant of God.
TRV