### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **opheilḗ**, represented by `{{G3782}}`, refers to **indebtedness** or a **debt**. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning encompasses a concrete sum owed as well as a figurative obligation or duty.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G3782}}` is applied to both financial and social obligations. In a parable, it is used to describe a massive monetary **debt** that a servant owes his lord, which is then forgiven [[Matthew 18:32]]. It is also used in a broader sense to command believers to render to all their **dues**, a term which encompasses obligations such as paying tribute, custom, fear, and honour [[Romans 13:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concept of what is owed and how it is handled:
* `{{G591}}` **apodídōmi** (to give away, i.e. up, over, back, etc.): This verb, often translated as 'render' or 'repay', is the action of fulfilling an obligation. It is used to command believers to **render** to all what is due [[Romans 13:7]].
* `{{G863}}` **aphíēmi** (to send forth...forgive...remit): This term for 'forgive' or 'remit' is used in direct connection with `{{G3782}}`, as when a lord **forgave** a servant's entire debt [[Matthew 18:32]].
* `{{G5411}}` **phóros** (a tax): This specifies a type of obligation, referring to **tribute** paid as an assessment on persons or property. It is listed as one of the "dues" to be rendered [[Romans 13:7]].
* `{{G5092}}` **timḗ** (a value...esteem...honour): Representing a non-financial obligation, this word for **honour** is also listed as a 'due', highlighting the social and relational aspects of what is owed to others [[Romans 13:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3782}}` is demonstrated in its two appearances:
* **Civic and Social Duty:** The use of `{{G3782}}` in [[Romans 13:7]] establishes a principle of fulfilling obligations to all, including paying **tribute** and giving **honour**. This frames rendering what is due as a component of righteous living.
* **The Magnitude of Forgiveness:** In the parable of the wicked servant, the concept of **debt** `{{G3782}}` is used to illustrate the immense scale of grace. The lord's willingness to **forgive** the entire debt highlights a theme of complete remission [[Matthew 18:32]].
* **Financial and Relational Obligation:** The word connects tangible monetary debts with intangible duties like giving **fear** and **honour** [[Romans 13:7]]. This demonstrates that what is "due" extends beyond finances into the realm of relationships and social order.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3782}}` provides a framework for understanding what is owed. While appearing only twice, its usage is significant, illustrating both a believer's responsibility to **render** what is due to others in society [[Romans 13:7]] and the profound nature of grace in remitting an insurmountable **debt** [[Matthew 18:32]]. The word bridges the gap between concrete financial liabilities and the moral and social obligations that define relationships.
TRV