The Greek word amoibḗ, represented by G287, carries the meaning of requital. Derived from a word meaning "to exchange," its core concept is about repayment or giving something back in return. It is a rare term, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible.
The sole appearance of G287 is in 1 Timothy 5:4, where children and grandchildren are instructed "to requite their parents." In this context, the word describes the responsibility of younger generations to care for and support their widowed mothers or grandmothers. This action is presented as a learned behavior, directly linked to showing piety within the home. The term for "parents" here is G4269 prógonos, which includes ancestors and grandparents, broadening the scope of this duty.
Several related words in the passage illuminate the meaning of G287:
- G4269 prógonos (an ancestor, (grand-)parent): This word specifies who is to be requited. It is not limited to immediate parents but can include forefathers, establishing a principle of honoring one's lineage through practical support (1 Timothy 5:4, 2 Timothy 1:3).
- G2151 eusebéō (to be pious... to respect (support)): This defines the character of the requital. The act of supporting family is framed as an expression of piety, putting it on par with worship 1 Timothy 5:4. It is also used in the sense of worship toward God Acts 17:23.
- G3129 manthánō (to learn): This action of requiting is something that must be learned. It is presented as a core part of Christian instruction, similar to learning from Christ himself Matthew 11:29 or learning to be content Philippians 4:11.
The theological significance of G287 is found in its specific application within the household of faith.
- A Pious Duty: The act of requital is explicitly tied to piety. By instructing children to "shew piety" G2151 and "to requite" G287 in the same command, the text elevates familial care from a mere social obligation to a spiritual discipline 1 Timothy 5:4.
- A Learned Virtue: The passage emphasizes that this duty is to be learned G3129, placing it within the framework of discipleship and intentional Christian living. It is a practical outworking of the faith that is taught and acquired, not simply assumed.
- An Acceptable Act: The motivation for this requital is ultimately that it is "good G2570 and acceptable G587 before God" 1 Timothy 5:4. This action aligns with other "good" works that glorify God Matthew 5:16 and is considered agreeable in His sight.
In summary, G287 amoibḗ defines the important principle of requital within a family context. Although it appears only once, its placement in 1 Timothy 5:4 provides a powerful teaching: caring for one's parents and ancestors is a practical, learned expression of piety. It is more than a simple repayment; it is a spiritual act that is both good G2570 and acceptable G587 to God, demonstrating how faith is to be lived out within the most fundamental human relationships.
TRV