The Greek word emporía, represented by G1711, refers to traffic or merchandise. According to usage statistics, this term is quite specific, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse within the biblical text. Its sole appearance defines it as a form of commerce or business.
The only use of G1711 is in Matthew 22:5, where individuals who were invited to a gathering "made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise". In this context, merchandise represents a worldly pursuit or daily business that takes precedence over a significant invitation. It is portrayed as a distraction that leads a person away from a matter of importance.
Several words used in the same verse help clarify the meaning and consequence of prioritizing merchandise:
- G272 ameléō (to be careless of): This word is translated as "made light of" or "neglect." It is directly linked to the choice to pursue one's farm or merchandise, indicating that preoccupation with such things can lead to carelessness toward more vital matters (Matthew 22:5, Hebrews 2:3).
- G565 apérchomai (to go off): This term, meaning to depart or go away, describes the physical action taken by those who chose their worldly affairs. They "went their ways" to their farm and merchandise, illustrating a literal turning away Matthew 22:5. This act of departing can also signify that former things have "passed away" Revelation 21:4.
- G68 agrós (a field): Translated as "farm," this word is presented as a parallel distraction to merchandise. It represents land and agriculture, another common form of earthly possession and work that can divert a person's attention (Matthew 22:5, Luke 14:18).
Though rare, the theological weight of G1711 is clear from its single context.
- Preoccupation with Worldly Affairs: The primary lesson from the use of merchandise is the danger of allowing business and commerce to become an all-consuming focus. The choice to attend to one's merchandise is framed as an act of rejection Matthew 22:5.
- Grounds for Neglect: Turning to one's merchandise is explicitly tied to the act of neglect G272. This establishes a theological principle where attachment to worldly enterprise can result in disregarding spiritual invitations or duties, as seen in warnings not to "neglect the gift that is in thee" 1 Timothy 4:14.
- An Earthly Distraction: Paired with "farm" G68, merchandise symbolizes the spectrum of earthly possessions and responsibilities that can stand in the way of a higher calling. Other passages reinforce this, citing "a piece of ground" as an excuse Luke 14:18 or "lands" as things to be forsaken for a greater reward Matthew 19:29.
In summary, G1711 emporía is a highly specific term for merchandise or traffic. Its singular appearance in scripture serves as a powerful illustration of how daily commerce and worldly business can become a significant spiritual distraction. Associated with neglect and a deliberate turning away, it stands as a symbol for the earthly concerns that can cause one to "make light of" matters of eternal importance.
TRV