### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **xenízō**, represented by `{{G3579}}`, carries a dual meaning related to strangeness. It appears **11 times** across **10 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from the word for stranger or guest, `{{G3579}}` means to be a host or, passively, a guest. By implication, it also means to be, make, or appear strange. This duality reflects both the act of welcoming what is foreign and the perception of something as unusual or novel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{G3579}}` is used to describe two distinct concepts. The first is the act of providing lodging or hospitality. In the book of Acts, it is frequently used to describe believers hosting others, such as when Peter **lodged** the men sent by Cornelius [[Acts 10:23]] or when Publius **lodged** Paul and his companions for three days [[Acts 28:7]]. The second usage concerns the perception of something as strange or foreign. The Apostle Peter instructs believers not to **think it strange** when they face fiery trials [[1 Peter 4:12]], while the philosophers in Athens considered Paul's teachings to be **strange things** [[Acts 17:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the scope of `{{G3579}}`:
* `{{G3581}}` **xénos** (strange(-r)): As the root word, it defines what is foreign, alien, or novel. It appears alongside `{{G3579}}` in Peter's exhortation not to be surprised by trials as though a **strange thing** happened [[1 Peter 4:12]].
* `{{G5381}}` **philonexía** (hospitableness): This term for hospitality is used to command believers to "entertain strangers," which is immediately followed by the reminder that some have thereby **entertained** `{{G3579}}` angels [[Hebrews 13:2]].
* `{{G4451}}` **pýrōsis** (calamity as a test): This word for a fiery trial is directly connected to the idea of strangeness. Believers are told not to **think it strange** `{{G3579}}` concerning the **fiery trial** `{{G4451}}` that comes to test them [[1 Peter 4:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3579}}` is evident in its application to core Christian experiences and duties.
* **The Virtue of Hospitality:** The word underscores the importance of providing lodging and welcome, not just as a social courtesy but as a spiritual practice. This is exemplified when Publius **lodged** the shipwrecked apostles **courteously** `{{G5390}}` [[Acts 28:7]], and is elevated to a high standard in the reminder that in showing hospitality, some have **entertained** `{{G3579}}` **angels** `{{G32}}` [[Hebrews 13:2]].
* **The Nature of Christian Suffering:** The term is used to shape the believer's perspective on adversity. Trials and persecution are not to be considered **strange** `{{G3579}}`, but a normal part of the Christian life that serves as a **try** `{{G3986}}` or test of faith [[1 Peter 4:12]].
* **The Novelty of the Gospel:** The message of Jesus was perceived by outsiders as **strange things** [[Acts 17:20]], highlighting its radical and unfamiliar nature to the Greco-Roman world and establishing a contrast between worldly wisdom and divine revelation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3579}}` is a multifaceted word that moves between the tangible act of hospitality and the abstract perception of strangeness. It instructs believers on practical duties, such as providing lodging for fellow Christians and strangers [[Acts 10:23]], while also equipping them with a theological framework for understanding suffering [[1 Peter 4:12]] and the counter-cultural nature of their faith [[Acts 17:20]]. The word thus connects the simple act of opening a home to the profound reality of a faith that the world often finds strange.
TRV