### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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