### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **oikonomía**, represented by `{{G3622}}`, refers to the **administration** of a household or estate, often translated as **dispensation** or **stewardship**. It appears **7 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible. The term encompasses both the literal management of property and, more significantly, the execution of a divine plan or a sacred trust given by God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3622}}` is used in two primary ways: the literal management of an estate and the theological concept of a divine commission. The parable of the unjust steward in Luke uses the term to describe the manager's responsibilities, from which he is dismissed and must give an account of his **stewardship** [[Luke 16:2-4]]. Paul uses the word to describe his apostolic calling as a divine trust. He speaks of the "**dispensation** of the grace of God which is given me" [[Ephesians 3:2]] and the "**dispensation** of God which is given to me... to fulfil the word of God" [[Colossians 1:25]]. It is presented as a responsibility committed to him, even if performed against his will [[1 Corinthians 9:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning of administration and household management:
* `{{G3623}}` **oikonómos** (a house-distributor... or overseer... steward): This is the individual who performs the oikonomía. The parable in Luke contrasts the **steward** `{{G3623}}` with the **stewardship** `{{G3622}}` he holds [[Luke 16:3]].
* `{{G3621}}` **oikonoméō** (to manage (a house, i.e. an estate)): This is the verb form, meaning "to be steward." It is used when the master demands an account, saying "thou mayest be no longer **steward**" [[Luke 16:2]].
* `{{G3624}}` **oîkos** (a dwelling... a family... house(-hold)): The root word for oikonomía, signifying the domain being managed, whether a literal **house** [[Luke 16:4]] or the spiritual house of God's people.
* `{{G1325}}` **dídōmi** (to give): This verb is frequently connected with oikonomía, emphasizing that a stewardship is not something earned but is **given** by God as a trust ([[Ephesians 3:2]], [[Colossians 1:25]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3622}}` is significant, framing God's plan and the believer's role within it.
* **Divine Economy:** The term is used to describe God's overarching administrative plan for salvation history. This is seen in "the **dispensation** of the fulness of times" when God will gather all things in Christ [[Ephesians 1:10]].
* **Apostolic Commission:** For Paul, oikonomía defined his specific calling. He was entrusted with a "**dispensation** of the gospel" [[1 Corinthians 9:17]] and made a **minister** `{{G1249}}` according to the "**dispensation** of God" [[Colossians 1:25]] to fulfil God's word.
* **Faithful Stewardship:** The concept carries an inherent demand for accountability. Just as the steward in Luke's parable had to give an account for his management [[Luke 16:2]], believers are considered stewards of the grace they have been given.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3622}}` moves from the simple concept of household management to a profound theological principle. It illustrates the administration of both earthly affairs and divine trusts. The word defines God's sovereign plan unfolding through time, as well as the sacred responsibility given to individuals to manage the gifts and callings they have received from Him. Thus, **oikonomía** serves as a key concept for understanding divine order, apostolic duty, and the accountability inherent in a life of faith.
TRV