The Greek word pandocheús, represented by G3830, refers to a host or an innkeeper. It appears just 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. The term defines the role of a warden of a caravanserai, a person responsible for lodging and caring for travelers.
The single biblical appearance of G3830 is within the parable of the Good Samaritan. After tending to a wounded man, the Samaritan brings him to an inn and entrusts his care to the host. He gives G1325 the host two pence G1220, instructing him to "Take care of him," and promises to repay any additional costs upon his return Luke 10:35. In this narrative, the host is a figure who accepts a specific responsibility based on the provision and promise of another.
Several related words from its context illuminate the role of the host:
- G1325 dídōmi (to give): This verb describes the act of bestowing or granting. The Samaritan gave the host money for the man's care, just as God gave His only Son for the world John 3:16.
- G1959 epimeléomai (to care for): This is the specific instruction given to the host. The word highlights a duty of care and is also used in the context of a leader's responsibility to take care of the church of God 1 Timothy 3:5.
- G1880 epanérchomai (to come again, return): This word signifies the Samaritan's promised return. It is also used in a parable describing a nobleman who was returned after receiving his kingdom, ready to call his servants to account Luke 19:15.
- G591 apodídōmi (to give away, i.e. up, over, back, etc.): This is the Samaritan's guarantee to repay the host. The word is used to describe how the Son of man will reward every person according to their works upon His return Matthew 16:27.
The theological significance of G3830 is tied to its role within this parable. It illustrates several key principles:
- Entrusted Stewardship: The host is given a task and the resources to perform it, acting as a steward for the Samaritan. This mirrors the responsibility given to believers to care for others using the provisions granted to them.
- Acting on Promise: The host's willingness to "spend more" G4325 is based entirely on his faith in the Samaritan's promise to return G1880 and repay G591 him.
- A Model of Service: While the Samaritan is the primary example of mercy, the host plays a crucial, practical role. He facilitates the care and recovery, acting as an agent who carries out the merciful intentions of another.
In summary, though pandocheús G3830 is a rare word, its singular use is powerful. It represents more than a simple innkeeper; it symbolizes a person entrusted with the care of another, acting in faith based on the provision and promised return of a benefactor. The role of the host in the parable serves as a picture of stewardship and faithful service in response to a commission of mercy.
TRV