from a compound of ἐν and δέω (in the sense of lacking); deficient in:--lacking.
Transliteration:endeḗs
Pronunciation:en-deh-ace'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective G1729 (ἐνδεής, endeḗs) is derived from a compound of the preposition ἐν (en), meaning "in" or "within," and a form of the verb δέω (deō), which in this context carries the sense of "to lack" or "to be in need." Thus, endeḗs fundamentally means "deficient in," "lacking," "needy," or "in want." It describes a state of insufficiency or inadequacy, indicating that something essential or desired is absent. The word conveys a strong sense of a gap or deficit in provision or resources.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term G1729 (ἐνδεής) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the book of Acts:
* **[[Acts 4:34]]**: "Nor was there anyone among them who was **lacking** (ἐνδεής), for all who were owners of land or houses would sell them and bring the proceeds of the sales..."
* In this pivotal passage, Luke describes the remarkable unity and generosity of the early Christian community in Jerusalem. The phrase "nor was there anyone among them who was lacking" serves as a powerful testament to their radical commitment to sharing. Believers sold their possessions and laid the proceeds at the apostles' feet, ensuring that resources were distributed according to each person's need. The absence of endeḗs within this nascent community highlights a state of communal abundance and mutual care, where the spiritual bond translated into tangible material provision for all members. This verse paints an ideal picture of Christian fellowship, demonstrating how the love of Christ manifested in practical economic justice.
### Related Words & Concepts
To fully grasp the meaning of G1729, it is helpful to consider related Greek terms and theological concepts:
* **Antonyms/Contrasts:** The concept of endeḗs stands in stark contrast to ideas of abundance (περισσεία - G4050), sufficiency (ἱκανότης - G2426), and fullness (πλήρωμα - G4138). The passage in Acts emphasizes the *absence* of lack.
* **Synonyms/Related Terms:**
* πτωχός (ptōchos - G4434): "poor" or "beggarly." While related to need, ptōchos often denotes a general state of poverty, whereas endeḗs specifically highlights the condition of being "lacking" in something.
* χρεία (chreia - G5532): "need" or "necessity." This noun expresses the underlying concept of what is required.
* ὑστερέω (hysteréō - G5302): A verb meaning "to lack," "to fall short," or "to be deficient." It often describes a state of not having enough or failing to meet a standard.
* δέομαι (deomai - G1189): A verb meaning "to beg," "to implore," or "to ask for," often used in the context of expressing a deep need.
* **Theological Concepts:** The context of endeḗs in Acts points to core Christian theological concepts such as communal sharing, Christian charity (ἀγάπη - G26), the practical outworking of love, stewardship of resources, and God's provision for His people through the body of Christ.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of G1729 in [[Acts 4:34]] carries profound theological weight. It presents an aspirational model for the church, demonstrating how the indwelling Spirit and shared faith can transform economic realities. The fact that "no one was lacking" underscores several key theological truths:
1. **Practical Love and Fellowship:** It illustrates that genuine Christian fellowship (koinonia) extends beyond spiritual communion to include tangible care for one another's material needs. This radical generosity was a visible manifestation of their love for God and neighbor.
2. **Kingdom Ethics:** The early church's practice reflects the ethical demands of the Kingdom of God, where justice and equity are paramount. It echoes Jesus' teachings on caring for the poor and marginalized ([[Matthew 25:31-46]]) and challenges the prevailing economic disparities of the world.
3. **Divine Provision through Human Means:** While God is ultimately the provider, this passage shows that His provision often comes through the sacrificial giving of His people. The community itself became the instrument through which God ensured no one was endeḗs.
4. **A Witness to the World:** The absence of lack within the community would have been a powerful witness to the surrounding society, demonstrating a radically different way of life founded on selfless love rather than self-interest. It offers a counter-cultural vision of what a truly Spirit-filled community looks like.
### Summary
G1729 (ἐνδεής, endeḗs) is a Greek adjective signifying "lacking," "deficient," or "in need." Its solitary appearance in the New Testament, in [[Acts 4:34]], is exceptionally significant. It describes the early Jerusalem church, where, through an extraordinary commitment to communal sharing and mutual care, "there was not anyone among them who was lacking." This powerful statement highlights the practical outworking of Christian love and fellowship, demonstrating a community where material needs were met through radical generosity. The absence of endeḗs among believers serves as a theological benchmark, illustrating the church's calling to alleviate want and manifest God's abundant provision within the body of Christ. It underscores the ideal of a community where every member is cared for, reflecting the transformative power of the Gospel to create a society marked by equity and love rather than scarcity and destitution.
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