### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **aloáō**, represented by `{{G248}}`, refers to the agricultural practice to **tread out grain**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its base definition, "to tread out grain:--thresh, tread out the corn," points to its literal meaning of separating grain from the husk, a task often performed by an animal.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G248}}` is consistently part of a principle drawn from the Law of Moses. In both [[1 Corinthians 9:9]] and [[1 Timothy 5:18]], the instruction is cited: "Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn". This literal agricultural command is then used to illustrate a broader principle. In [[1 Corinthians 9:10]], the action of "threshing" is linked directly to the motivation of hope, stating that "he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope".
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and application of `{{G248}}`:
* `{{G1016}}` **boûs** (an ox): This word identifies the animal performing the action of threshing in the foundational principle cited in scripture [[1 Corinthians 9:9]].
* `{{G5392}}` **phimóō** (to muzzle): This verb is used in the negative command associated with `{{G248}}`, forbidding the muzzling of the working ox [[1 Timothy 5:18]].
* `{{G722}}` **arotrióō** (to plow): This term is paired with `{{G248}}` to describe the full agricultural process, from preparing the ground to harvesting the grain [[1 Corinthians 9:10]].
* `{{G3348}}` **metéchō** (to share or participate): This highlights the result of threshing in hope; the worker is entitled to **partake** in the fruits of their labor [[1 Corinthians 9:10]].
### Theological Significance
The application of `{{G248}}` carries significant weight, illustrating how a literal command can establish a broader ethical principle.
* **Provision for Labor:** The core principle is that the laborer deserves to benefit from their work. This is made explicit when the verse about the unmuzzled ox is paired with the statement, "The labourer is worthy of his reward" [[1 Timothy 5:18]].
* **Spiritual Application:** The context in [[1 Corinthians 9:9-10]] clarifies that the principle is not merely about animal welfare ("Doth God take care for oxen?") but is written "for our sakes," applying it to those who labor in spiritual matters.
* **Work and Hope:** Threshing is explicitly linked with hope. The work of both the one who plows and the one who threshes is to be done with the expectation of being a "partaker of his hope" [[1 Corinthians 9:10]], ensuring that effort is connected to a rightful share in the outcome.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G248}}` provides a powerful example of biblical interpretation where a concrete agricultural task—threshing—is used to establish a timeless principle. Though it appears only three times, its usage is pivotal in arguing for the right of laborers to receive provision from their work. The word moves from the literal image of an ox treading grain to the spiritual reality that work done in hope should result in a deserved share of the harvest.
TRV