### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ákōn**, represented by `{{G210}}`, means **unwilling** or **against the will**. It is formed from the negative particle Α and the word ἑκών. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, yet it provides a critical distinction in understanding one's divine calling.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G210}}` is in Paul's discussion of his apostolic ministry. In [[1 Corinthians 9:17]], he contrasts two motivations for preaching the gospel. He states that if he were to **do** `{{G4238}}` it **willingly** `{{G1635}}`, he would **have** `{{G2192}}` a **reward** `{{G3408}}`. He immediately follows this with the alternative: "**but** `{{G1161}}` **if** `{{G1487}}` **against my will** `{{G210}}`, a **dispensation** `{{G3622}}` of the gospel is **committed unto me** `{{G4100}}`." This singular use highlights a service performed not for reward, but out of a divine and inescapable obligation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help clarify the meaning of `{{G210}}`:
* `{{G1635}}` **hekṓn** (willingly): As the direct antonym of **ákōn**, this word means voluntary. Its use in the same verse establishes the central contrast between acting from personal volition and acting from a divine commission [[1 Corinthians 9:17]].
* `{{G3408}}` **misthós** (reward): This term for "pay for service" or "wages" is presented as the result of willing action. In other contexts, a **reward** is promised to those who do good, but here it is contrasted with the duty of a steward [[Matthew 6:1]].
* `{{G3622}}` **oikonomía** (dispensation): This word for "administration" or "stewardship" is linked to acting **against my will** `{{G210}}`. It signifies that Paul's role is not a job he chose for pay, but a sacred trust or administration given to him by God [[Colossians 1:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G210}}` is concentrated in its single appearance, establishing a powerful concept regarding ministry and calling.
* **Duty Over Desire:** The word introduces a category of service that transcends personal willingness. The preaching of the gospel is presented as a non-negotiable duty, a **dispensation** `{{G3622}}` that has been entrusted to Paul, regardless of his personal feelings [[1 Corinthians 9:17]].
* **The Unavoidable Commission:** By using **ákōn**, Paul emphasizes that his commission is not a matter of choice that can be accepted or rejected. The stewardship was "committed unto" him `{{G4100}}`, implying a divine appointment that he must fulfill.
* **A Framework for Motive:** The contrast between acting **willingly** `{{G1635}}` for a **reward** `{{G3408}}` and acting **against my will** `{{G210}}` out of obligation provides a framework for examining motives. It suggests that the highest calling is rooted in faithfulness to a given trust, not in the pursuit of personal gain.
### Summary
In summary, while appearing only once, `{{G210}}` is a theologically significant word. It defines a specific type of service rendered not from personal choice but from an inescapable divine mandate. In its context in [[1 Corinthians 9:17]], **ákōn** sharply contrasts a voluntary act done for a reward with the profound responsibility of a stewardship given by God, illustrating that a divine calling can be a binding obligation that supersedes one's own will.
TRV