from οἶκος and (a guard; be "ware"); a stayer at home, i.e. domestically inclined (a "good housekeeper"):--keeper at home.
Transliteration:oikourós
Pronunciation:oy-koo-ros'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term οἰκουρός (oikourós `{{G3626}}`) is a compound word derived from οἶκος (oikos `{{G3624}}`), meaning "house" or "household," and οὖρος (ouros), meaning "a guard" or "keeper." Literally, it translates to "house-guard" or "house-keeper." Its semantic range extends beyond mere physical presence within a dwelling to encompass the active and diligent management, oversight, and preservation of the domestic sphere. This includes the responsibilities associated with maintaining a home, fostering its well-being, and ensuring its orderliness. The nuance of "guard" implies protection, vigilance, and careful stewardship over the household and its inhabitants. It suggests being "domestically inclined" and a "good housekeeper," emphasizing a proactive and responsible role in the home.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word οἰκουρός (oikourós `{{G3626}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in Paul's epistle to Titus:
* **[[Titus 2:5]]**: "to be discreet, chaste, *keepers at home*, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed."
In this passage, Paul instructs older women to teach younger women specific virtues, and being a "keeper at home" is one of them. The context is didactic, outlining practical expressions of Christian living that reflect well on the Gospel. For younger women, this instruction underscores the importance of their role within the household. It is not merely a passive state of staying indoors but an active engagement in the management and care of the home. This counters potential tendencies towards idleness, gossip, or wandering outside the home, which could lead to reproach. The phrase "that the word of God be not blasphemed" highlights the significant reputational and evangelistic implications of a well-ordered and responsibly managed home. A woman's diligence in her domestic duties contributes positively to the Christian witness, demonstrating the transformative power of faith in everyday life.
### Related Words & Concepts
The etymology of οἰκουρός (oikourós `{{G3626}}`) naturally links it to other words built upon the root οἶκος (oikos `{{G3624}}`):
* οἰκοδεσπότης (oikodespotes `{{G3617}}`): "master of a house," "householder," emphasizing authority and ownership within the home.
* οἰκονομέω (oikonomeō `{{G3621}}`): "to manage a household," "to be a steward," focusing on the act of administration.
* οἰκονομία (oikonomia `{{G3622}}`): "stewardship," "management," referring to the system or principles of household administration or divine ordering.
* οἰκία (oikia `{{G3613}}`): "house," "dwelling," a more general term for the physical structure.
Concepts closely related to οἰκουρός (oikourós `{{G3626}}`) include:
* **Stewardship:** The responsible oversight and management of resources and responsibilities entrusted to one's care.
* **Orderliness:** The maintenance of structure, cleanliness, and harmony within the domestic environment.
* **Diligence:** Persistent and careful effort in one's work and duties.
* **Protection:** Safeguarding the home, its members, and its reputation.
* **Domestic Responsibility:** The specific duties and obligations pertaining to the care and functioning of a household.
### Theological Significance
The inclusion of οἰκουρός (oikourós `{{G3626}}`) in Paul's instructions to younger women in [[Titus 2:5]] elevates the domestic sphere to a realm of significant theological importance. It is not merely a cultural expectation but a divine imperative for Christian women. The diligent management of the home is presented as a vital component of a godly life, contributing directly to the honor of God's Word.
Theologically, this term underscores several points:
1. **Christian Witness:** A well-ordered and responsibly managed home serves as a powerful testimony to the transforming power of the Gospel. Conversely, neglect or disorder in the home could bring reproach upon Christian teaching.
2. **Protection Against Idleness:** The command implicitly guards against idleness and wandering, which can lead to gossip, meddling, and other behaviors that dishonor God, as warned elsewhere (e.g., [[1 Timothy 5:13]]).
3. **Foundation for Family and Society:** The home is the foundational unit of society and the primary locus for discipleship and spiritual formation, especially for children. A "keeper at home" contributes to a stable and nurturing environment conducive to spiritual growth.
4. **Complementary Roles:** While specific to women in this context, the principle of diligent stewardship applies broadly. It highlights the complementary nature of roles within the family and community, each contributing to the overall flourishing of God's people.
5. **Sanctification of the Mundane:** It demonstrates that even seemingly mundane domestic duties can be acts of worship and obedience, consecrated to God's glory.
### Summary
οἰκουρός (oikourós `{{G3626}}`) is a compound Greek word meaning "house-guard" or "house-keeper." It appears uniquely in [[Titus 2:5]], where younger women are exhorted to be "keepers at home." This term denotes more than mere physical presence; it implies active, diligent, and responsible management of the domestic sphere, ensuring order, care, and a stable environment. Theologically, this instruction highlights the profound importance of the home as a sphere of Christian witness and discipleship. A woman's role as οἰκουρός (oikourós `{{G3626}}`) is presented as vital for upholding the reputation of the Gospel, preventing idleness, and contributing to the spiritual and practical well-being of the family and, by extension, the church. It underscores that even domestic responsibilities are integral to a life that honors God.
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