### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **paroikéō**, represented by `{{G3939}}`, means to "reside as a foreigner" or to sojourn. Derived from παρά (to be near) and οἰκέω (to dwell), it appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses**. The term specifically conveys the idea of living in a place without being a native citizen, emphasizing a temporary or alien status rather than a permanent residence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G3939}}` illustrates the state of being an outsider. In Hebrews, it is used to describe Abraham's experience, who by faith **sojourned** in the land of promise as if it were a strange country [[Hebrews 11:9]]. This highlights that his presence was based on faith in a future inheritance, not on present ownership. In a different context, Cleopas asks the unrecognized Jesus if he is the only **stranger** in Jerusalem, implying someone so detached from local events that he is unaware of what has happened [[Luke 24:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of sojourning:
* `{{G245}}` **allótrios** (foreign, not one's own): This word is used in conjunction with `{{G3939}}` in [[Hebrews 11:9]], where Abraham sojourned in the promised land "as in a **strange country**." It reinforces the idea of being in a place that does not belong to you.
* `{{G2730}}` **katoikéō** (to house permanently): This term for permanent dwelling provides a contrast to the temporary nature of `{{G3939}}`. In [[Hebrews 11:9]], Abraham **sojourned** `{{G3939}}` while **dwelling** `{{G2730}}` in tents, indicating his temporary physical living situation within his broader spiritual journey as a foreigner.
* `{{G4102}}` **pístis** (faith): This is the foundational reason for the sojourning described in Hebrews. It is "By **faith**" that Abraham lived as a foreigner, showing that his alien status was a deliberate choice rooted in his conviction in God's promises [[Hebrews 11:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3939}}` is significant, framing the believer's life as a spiritual journey.
* **The Life of Faith as a Sojourn:** The use of `{{G3939}}` in [[Hebrews 11:9]] establishes a key theological theme: the faithful live as strangers and pilgrims on earth. Abraham's physical wandering is presented as a model for the Christian life, which is lived in anticipation of a heavenly home.
* **Alienation from the World:** To sojourn is to be an outsider. The question posed to Jesus in [[Luke 24:18]] uses `{{G3939}}` to mean someone disconnected from the world's immediate affairs. This reflects a spiritual principle where believers are in the world but not of it.
* **Reliance on Promise, Not Possession:** Sojourning implies a lack of permanent settlement. Abraham's story, driven by **faith** `{{G4102}}`, shows that his identity was not tied to the land he inhabited but to the promise he had received from God [[Hebrews 11:9]].
### Summary
In summary, **paroikéō** `{{G3939}}` is a concise but powerful term that defines the Christian experience as a journey of faith. Though used only twice, it captures the essence of living as a "stranger" or "sojourner," guided by divine promise rather than worldly attachment. It distinguishes the temporary state of the believer on earth from the permanent dwelling they await, making it a cornerstone concept for understanding the life of faith.
TRV