### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **endeḗs**, represented by `{{G1729}}`, means **deficient in** or **lacking**. It is derived from a compound of `{{G1722}}` **en** ("in") and δέω (in the sense of lacking). It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in scripture, making its specific context highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical use of `{{G1729}}` is in [[Acts 4:34]], which describes the state of the early community of believers. The verse states, "Neither was there any among them that **lacked**." This absence of need was not by chance, but was the result of a deliberate practice within the church: "for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold" [[Acts 4:34]]. This highlights a community characterized by radical generosity and mutual support.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context in which deficiency was eliminated:
* `{{G1722}}` **en**: This primary preposition, meaning "in," "at," or "among," forms the first part of **endeḗs**. It is used in [[Acts 4:34]] to specify that the lack was eliminated from "among them," emphasizing the internal dynamic of the community.
* `{{G2935}}` **ktḗtōr**: Defined as an "owner" or "possessor," this word identifies the individuals within the community who had the resources to help others. Their willingness to sell their possessions was the direct cause for the absence of lack [[Acts 4:34]].
* `{{G3614}}` **oikía**: This word for "house" or "household" specifies one of the primary assets sold, along with lands `{{G5564}}`, to provide for the needs of the entire group [[Acts 4:34]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1729}}` is centered on the practical outworking of faith in a community:
* **Communal Provision:** The word's only appearance demonstrates a core principle of the early church where the community ensured no member was left **lacking**. This was achieved through the voluntary sharing of resources by its **possessors** `{{G2935}}` [[Acts 4:34]].
* **Generosity over Possession:** The act of selling houses `{{G3614}}` and lands `{{G5564}}` shows that the believers prioritized the well-being of their fellow members over personal property. Possessions were viewed as a means to serve the community.
* **Unity in Practice:** The absence of anyone who **lacked** `{{G1729}}` was a tangible expression of the believers' oneness. By selling possessions to meet needs, they demonstrated that distinctions between rich and poor were being overcome within the new community of faith [[Acts 4:34]], a principle echoed in the declaration that in Christ there is "neither bond nor free" [[Galatians 3:28]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1729}}` **endeḗs**, though appearing only once, offers a profound insight into the life of the early church. It is not merely a word for "lacking" but a term whose absence in the community of [[Acts 4:34]] defines a key aspect of their faith. The term illustrates how the generosity of those with possessions `{{G2935}}` created a community where no one was deficient, embodying a powerful model of Christian fellowship and mutual care.
TRV