from the same as πανδοχεῖον; an innkeeper (warden of a caravanserai):--host.
Transliteration:pandocheús
Pronunciation:pan-dokh-yoos'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word πανδοχεύς (pandocheús, `{{G3830}}`) is derived from πανδοχεῖον (pandocheion, `{{G3829}}`), meaning "an inn" or "a place that receives all." The prefix παν- (pan-) signifies "all" or "every," and the root relates to δεχομαι (dechomai), "to receive." Thus, πανδοχεύς literally denotes "one who receives all" or "a host," specifically an "innkeeper" or "warden of a caravanserai." In the ancient Near East, such a figure was responsible for providing lodging, food, and basic care for travelers and their animals. The semantic range is narrow, focusing on the practical role of providing accommodation and hospitality, often for a fee, but implicitly involving a measure of responsibility for the well-being of guests.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term πανδοχεύς appears only once in the New Testament, within the pivotal Parable of the Good Samaritan in the Gospel of Luke. In [[Luke 10:35]], after the Samaritan has rendered initial aid to the brutally beaten man, he brings him to an inn (πανδοχεῖον, `{{G3829}}`) and entrusts him to the care of the πανδοχεύς. The Samaritan's instruction is explicit: "Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, I will repay you when I come back." This single occurrence is profoundly significant. The πανδοχεύς functions as a crucial intermediary, a reliable figure who extends the Samaritan's initial act of compassion into ongoing care. The innkeeper's role is not passive; he is actively charged with the man's recovery and is compensated for his efforts, highlighting a practical, sustainable model of care. The narrative relies on the πανδοχεύς as a trusted professional capable of providing the necessary long-term support that the Samaritan, as a traveler, could not personally offer.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is πανδοχεῖον (pandocheion, `{{G3829}}`), the "inn" or "lodging place" itself, which is the establishment managed by the πανδοχεύς. Broader concepts include φιλοξενία (philoxenia, `{{G5381}}`), "love of strangers" or "hospitality," a virtue highly esteemed throughout Scripture (e.g., [[Romans 12:13]], [[Hebrews 13:2]]). While the πανδοχεύς typically operates for a fee, his willingness to accept the injured man, particularly under the Samaritan's arrangement, aligns with the spirit of practical compassion. The concept of "care" or "nurturing" (ἐπιμελέομαι, epimeleomai, `{{G2911}}`) is also central, as the πανδοχεύς is explicitly told to "take care of him." Furthermore, the πανδοχεύς embodies a form of "stewardship," being entrusted with the man's well-being and the Samaritan's resources. The word stands in stark contrast to the actions of the priest and the Levite, who, by passing by, failed to embody the very compassion that the Samaritan and, subsequently, the πανδοχεύς demonstrated.
### Theological Significance
Though appearing only once, the πανδοχεύς holds significant theological weight within the Parable of the Good Samaritan. The innkeeper represents the extension and practical outworking of mercy. The Samaritan initiated the act of compassion, but the πανδοχεύς ensures its continuation, demonstrating that true love for neighbor often requires sustained effort and the involvement of others. Theologically, the πανδοχεύς can be seen as a metaphor for the Christian community or the Church. Just as the inn provides a place of refuge and healing for the broken man, the Church is called to be a spiritual "inn" – a place where the spiritually wounded and outcast find care, restoration, and ongoing support. The Samaritan's promise to return and repay further expenses can be interpreted as Christ's ongoing provision for His Church, empowering it to continue its ministry of healing and reconciliation. The πανδοχεύς embodies the principle that God often uses human agents and institutions to manifest His compassion and provide for the vulnerable, making them instruments in His redemptive plan.
### Summary
The Greek word πανδοχεύς (pandocheús, `{{G3830}}`), meaning "innkeeper" or "host," appears uniquely in [[Luke 10:35]] within the Parable of the Good Samaritan. This singular occurrence is critical, as the πανδοχεύς serves as the indispensable link in the chain of compassion initiated by the Samaritan. He represents the practical, sustained outworking of mercy and hospitality, taking responsibility for the ongoing care of the injured man. Theologically, the πανδοχεύς can symbolize the role of the Christian community or Church as a place of refuge and healing for the broken, demonstrating how divine compassion is channeled through human instruments. The word, though seemingly minor, underscores profound biblical themes of active love for neighbor, communal responsibility, and the practical manifestation of God's provision for the vulnerable.
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