### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
G3673 (homótechnos) is a compound Greek word derived from two distinct elements: ὁμοῦ (homou), meaning "together," "alike," or "of the same kind," and τέχνη (technē `{{G5078}}`), which denotes "art," "skill," "craft," or "trade." Consequently, the core meaning of homótechnos is "of the same craft" or "a fellow-craftsman/artificer." It specifically describes individuals who share the same profession, skilled trade, or vocational pursuit. The word emphasizes a commonality rooted in practical skill and shared labor, distinguishing it from broader terms of general fellowship or association. Its semantic range is narrow, focused on vocational kinship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term G3673 appears only once in the entire New Testament, in [[Acts 18:3]]. This singular occurrence is profoundly significant for understanding the practical aspects of the apostle Paul's life and ministry. The verse states concerning Paul: "And because he was of the same craft, he stayed with them and worked; for by occupation they were tentmakers." Here, "them" refers to Aquila and Priscilla, a Jewish couple Paul encountered in Corinth after being expelled from Rome. The use of homótechnos explicitly identifies Paul as sharing the same trade—tentmaking—with Aquila and Priscilla. This shared profession became the immediate basis for their living arrangement and working relationship. This detail highlights several crucial aspects of Paul's apostolic strategy: his commitment to self-sufficiency, his willingness to engage in manual labor to support his missionary endeavors, and the practical means by which he often integrated into the communities he sought to evangelize. It illustrates how common vocations could foster immediate connections and provide a platform for both ministry and fellowship among early believers.
### Related Words & Concepts
The components of G3673 naturally link to other important terms in the Greek New Testament:
* ὁμοῦ (homou): This prefix, signifying "together" or "alike," is foundational to the word's meaning of shared identity in a craft. It connects to broader concepts of unity and commonality, as seen in words like ὁμολογέω (homologeo `{{G3670}}`), "to confess together" or "to agree."
* τέχνη (technē `{{G5078}}`): Denoting "art," "skill," or "trade," this root word emphasizes the practical, skilled labor involved. It is closely related to τεχνίτης (technitēs `{{G5079}}`), an "artisan" or "craftsman."
Other related concepts that broaden the understanding of work and labor in the New Testament include:
* ἔργον (ergon `{{G2041}}`): A general term for "work" or "deed," encompassing both physical labor and spiritual activity.
* κοπιάω (kopiao `{{G2872}}`): "To toil" or "to labor strenuously," often used by Paul to describe the arduous nature of both physical work and ministerial effort ([[1 Corinthians 15:10]]).
* ἐργάτης (ergatēs `{{G2040}}`): "Worker" or "laborer," emphasizing the one who performs the work.
The concept of homótechnos also subtly connects to the broader biblical theme of the dignity of labor, exemplified by the life of Jesus, who was himself a τέκτων (tektōn `{{G5075}}`), a carpenter or craftsman ([[Mark 6:3]]).
### Theological Significance
The solitary appearance of G3673 in [[Acts 18:3]] carries profound theological weight, particularly regarding the apostle Paul's model of ministry and the Christian's engagement with the world.
1. **Dignity of Labor:** Paul's willingness to engage in manual labor, even as an apostle called to proclaim the gospel, sanctifies and dignifies all honest work. It counters any notion that spiritual ministry is inherently superior to or separate from practical, "secular" vocations. This aligns with the biblical principle that all work, when done unto the Lord, can be an act of worship and a means of glorifying God ([[Colossians 3:23]]).
2. **Self-Support and Integrity in Ministry:** By being homótechnos with Aquila and Priscilla, Paul demonstrated a commitment to self-sufficiency. This practice allowed him to avoid being a financial burden on the nascent churches ([[1 Thessalonians 2:9]], [[2 Thessalonians 3:8-9]]), thereby protecting his apostolic authority from accusations of greed or exploitation. His self-support ensured that the gospel could be freely proclaimed without impediment, fostering trust and credibility among new converts.
3. **Incarnational Ministry and Relatability:** Paul's shared craft enabled him to connect with people on a practical, everyday level, embodying an incarnational approach to ministry. He did not distance himself from ordinary life but immersed himself in it, building relationships through common experience. This shared vocational identity provided a natural bridge for evangelism and discipleship, demonstrating the gospel's relevance to all aspects of human existence.
4. **Fellowship and Community:** The shared craft facilitated immediate fellowship and community among believers. Aquila and Priscilla became vital co-workers and friends in Paul's ministry, demonstrating how vocational connections can strengthen the body of Christ and provide practical support for gospel work. It highlights the principle that Christian community can form and thrive even within the context of shared secular employment.
### Summary
The Greek word G3673 (homótechnos), meaning "of the same craft" or "fellow-craftsman," appears uniquely in the New Testament in [[Acts 18:3]]. This singular occurrence describes the apostle Paul's shared profession of tentmaking with Aquila and Priscilla, forming the immediate basis for their connection and partnership in Corinth. Despite its rare appearance, homótechnos illuminates several significant theological principles. It underscores the biblical dignity of manual labor, exemplified by Paul's commitment to self-support, which ensured the integrity and unhindered proclamation of his gospel ministry. Furthermore, it highlights an incarnational approach to mission, where shared vocational life provides a natural avenue for building relationships and fostering Christian community. The word thus serves as a powerful reminder that all honest work can be sanctified, contributing to both personal sustenance and the advancement of God's kingdom through authentic, relational engagement.
TRV