### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **místhōma**, represented by `{{G3410}}`, refers to **a rented building** or a **hired house**. It is derived from the word μισθόω. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G3410}}` is found in the final chapter of Acts, which describes the circumstances of the Apostle Paul's imprisonment in Rome. The verse states, "And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own **hired house**, and received all that came in unto him" [[Acts 28:30]]. This **hired house** served as the location for his house arrest, a place where he was confined yet remained accessible to visitors, allowing him to continue his ministry and teaching.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its single context in [[Acts 28:30]] help clarify the situation:
* `{{G3306}}` **ménō** (to stay... dwell, endure, be present): This verb describes Paul's action of dwelling or remaining in the hired house for an extended period, suggesting a settled, though confined, existence. The concept of abiding is central to his teachings [[John 15:4]].
* `{{G1333}}` **dietía** (a space of two years (biennium)): This word specifies the duration of Paul's stay in the hired house, emphasizing a significant period of ministry that occurred within this setting [[Acts 24:27]].
* `{{G2398}}` **ídios** (pertaining to self, i.e. one's own): This highlights that the hired house was for Paul's own private use, even as a prisoner. It reinforces the idea that God provides for His servants in their own specific circumstances [[Galatians 6:9]].
* `{{G588}}` **apodéchomai** (to take fully, i.e. welcome (persons), approve (things)): This indicates the nature of Paul's activity in his rented dwelling; he would welcome or receive all who came to him, turning his place of confinement into a center for fellowship and instruction [[Acts 2:41]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G3410}}` is derived entirely from its context:
* **Providence in Confinement:** The ability for Paul to secure a **hired house** rather than being held in a common prison demonstrates God's provision. It allowed him a degree of autonomy and the means to continue his apostolic work, even while under Roman guard.
* **The Unstoppable Gospel:** This term underscores the theme that the gospel is not bound by physical chains or locations. A simple **rented building** became a strategic base from which Paul "received all that came in unto him" [[Acts 28:30]], showing that ministry flourishes wherever a willing servant is placed.
* **Ministry in Ordinary Places:** The use of a common term like **hired house** emphasizes that sacred work is not limited to designated holy sites like temples or synagogues. Ministry happens in the everyday, mundane spaces of life, transforming them into places of profound spiritual importance.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G3410}}` is a minor word in terms of frequency, its singular appearance is noteworthy. It marks the location of Paul’s final recorded ministry in the book of Acts. The term **místhōma** transforms from a simple reference to a **rented building** into a symbol of God’s providence and the unstoppable nature of the gospel, which can turn a place of imprisonment into a platform for proclaiming the kingdom.
TRV