### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **halieús**, represented by `{{G231}}`, defines a **fisher** or **fisherman**. Derived from the word for salt (ἅλς), the term literally refers to a sailor engaged on the salt water, but is used in scripture to specifically mean a fisherman. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses**, making each occurrence significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G231}}` is used exclusively in the Gospels to describe the profession of some of the first disciples. It establishes the initial identity of Simon Peter and his brother Andrew, who are seen casting a net into the sea because they were **fishers** ([[Matthew 4:18]], [[Mark 1:16]]). This literal occupation becomes the foundation for a profound metaphor when Jesus calls them, promising to make them "**fishers** of men" ([[Matthew 4:19]], [[Mark 1:17]]). The term is also used to describe the men who had gone out of their ships by a lake to wash their nets [[Luke 5:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the life and work of a **halieús**:
* `{{G2281}}` **thálassa** (the sea): This is the primary workplace for a fisherman. The dossier notes that Simon and Andrew were found fishing by the **sea** of Galilee [[Matthew 4:18]].
* `{{G4143}}` **ploîon** (ship): This term refers to the vessel used by fishermen. In one account, the **fishermen** had left their **ships** to tend to their equipment [[Luke 5:2]].
* `{{G293}}` **amphíblēstron** (net): This describes a specific type of fishing **net** that is thrown. It is the very tool being cast by the disciples when Jesus first sees them [[Mark 1:16]].
* `{{G1350}}` **díktyon** (net): This is another word for a fishing **net**, which the fishermen were washing after coming ashore [[Luke 5:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G231}}` lies in its transformation from a literal job into a spiritual calling.
* **The Call to Discipleship:** The word immediately identifies the background of the first disciples. Their status as **fishers** is the starting point from which Jesus calls them to a new life [[Matthew 4:18]].
* **A Metaphor for Evangelism:** Jesus's promise to make them "**fishers** of men" `{{G444}}` re-purposes their earthly skills for a heavenly mission, illustrating the active gathering of people for the kingdom [[Mark 1:17]].
* **Transformation of Identity:** The call involves Jesus promising to "make" `{{G4160}}` them into something new. This shows that the change from a simple **fisherman** to an evangelist is a work of divine power and re-creation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G231}}` is more than just a label for an occupation. It serves as a crucial bridge between the disciples' former lives and their new purpose in Christ. The word **halieús** anchors the call to discipleship in the tangible, everyday world, demonstrating how Jesus meets people in their ordinary circumstances and elevates their purpose to the extraordinary work of the kingdom.
TRV