### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **oikodespotéō**, represented by `{{G3616}}`, means **to be the head of (i.e. rule) a family** and is translated as **guide the house**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its singular use provides a focused and direct command regarding the management of a household as a key aspect of Christian life.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G3616}}` is in [[1 Timothy 5:14]], where the author gives specific instructions for younger women. The verse states, "I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, **guide the house**, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully" [[1 Timothy 5:14]]. Here, the act of guiding the house is presented as a fundamental responsibility alongside marriage and child-rearing, intended to protect the community's reputation and prevent slander from any adversary.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the verse clarify the context and purpose of this command:
* `{{G1060}}` **gaméō** (to wed): This verb sets the stage for the domestic duties that follow, directly linking the act of marriage to the responsibility of managing a home [[1 Timothy 5:14]].
* `{{G5041}}` **teknogonéō** (to be a child-bearer): Paired with guiding the house, this term highlights the familial context of the instruction, emphasizing the roles within a family unit [[1 Timothy 5:14]].
* `{{G480}}` **antíkeimai** (to lie opposite, i.e. be adverse... adversary): This identifies the opponent whose criticism the proper management of the household is meant to thwart. Other scriptures identify this as a spiritual struggle, such as when the flesh and Spirit are described as being **contrary** to one another [[Galatians 5:17]].
* `{{G874}}` **aphormḗ** (a starting-point... an opportunity... occasion): This word signifies the "occasion" or foothold that should not be given to the adversary. Its use shows that righteous living can remove the starting points for accusation [[1 Timothy 5:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3616}}` is centered on the connection between domestic life and spiritual witness.
* **Household Management as Witness:** The primary application is that properly guiding the house serves a greater spiritual purpose: to **give** `{{G1325}}` **none** `{{G3367}}` **occasion** `{{G874}}` to the **adversary** `{{G480}}` to **speak reproachfully** `{{G3059}}`. This elevates household duties to a matter of public testimony.
* **A Defined Sphere of Authority:** The command to **guide the house** is part of a series of actions that are willed (`will` - `{{G1014}}`) for younger women, establishing a clear area of stewardship and rule within the family structure [[1 Timothy 5:14]].
* **Preventing Slander:** The verse's instruction is a proactive measure against **railing** or **vituperation** `{{G3059}}`. By fulfilling the role of a house-guide, believers actively close off opportunities for external criticism and protect the integrity of the church.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3616}}` provides a concise but powerful directive on household management. Though appearing only once, its placement in [[1 Timothy 5:14]] frames the act of guiding the house not as a mere domestic chore, but as a crucial component of a believer's responsibility. It directly links the orderly conduct of family life to the spiritual defense and honorable witness of the faith, showing that personal stewardship within the home has a significant public and theological impact.
TRV