### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **panoûrgos**, represented by `{{G3835}}`, is a term for being **crafty**. Derived from πᾶς (all) and ἔργον (working), its base definition is "all-working," which implies being adroit or shrewd. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{G3835}}` is used by Paul in 2 Corinthians. He is defending his ministry against accusations, stating rhetorically, "but being **crafty**, I caught you with guile" [[2 Corinthians 12:16]]. In this context, the word is used to voice a potential criticism from his opponents, not as a self-admission of deceitful behavior.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the same passage clarify the meaning of `{{G3835}}`:
* `{{G2983}}` **lambánō**: This verb means to take, catch, or receive. In the verse, Paul states "I caught `{{G2983}}` you," using the term to describe the accusation of entrapping the Corinthians. The word is also used for receiving blessings, such as when believers "shall receive the crown of life" [[James 1:12]].
* `{{G1388}}` **dólos**: This noun means a trick, wile, craft, deceit, or guile. It is directly paired with `{{G3835}}` in [[2 Corinthians 12:16]] to describe the method of the alleged "catching." The term consistently carries a negative meaning, as when the chief priests sought to take Jesus by **craft** [[Mark 14:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3835}}` is tied exclusively to its use in [[2 Corinthians 12:16]], where it illustrates a specific dynamic in ministry.
* **Ministerial Integrity:** The use of the word highlights the tension between a minister's true intentions and the way their actions can be maliciously interpreted. Paul uses the term **crafty** to confront the slander that he was cleverly manipulating the Corinthians.
* **Association with Deception:** By pairing **crafty** `{{G3835}}` with **guile** `{{G1388}}`, the passage firmly places the concept within the realm of ungodly deceit. This is reinforced elsewhere, where **guile** is listed among sins to be put aside [[1 Peter 2:1]] and is absent from the mouth of Christ [[1 Peter 2:22]].
* **Rhetorical Defense:** The word functions as part of a rhetorical argument where Paul voices the false accusation of his opponents in order to dismantle it, thereby defending his character and the sincerity of his ministry.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3835}}` is a precise term for being **crafty** or shrewd. Its single biblical usage is not a commendation of cleverness but rather a refutation of an accusation of cunning deceit. It demonstrates how a leader's character can be assailed with claims of manipulation, showing that Paul took such accusations seriously and confronted them directly by framing them in the negative context of taking someone with **guile** [[2 Corinthians 12:16]].
TRV