### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb `{{G3939}}` (paroikéō) is a compound word formed from παρά (para), meaning "beside" or "alongside," and οἰκέω (oikeō), meaning "to dwell" or "to inhabit." The combination yields a core meaning of "to dwell beside" or, more specifically, "to reside as a foreigner," "to sojourn," or "to be a stranger." It denotes a temporary or non-native residence, implying that one is not a permanent citizen or indigenous inhabitant of the place where one dwells. Unlike simply dwelling (`{{G3611}}` οἰκέω), `{{G3939}}` carries the nuance of being an alien or a transient resident, distinct from the local populace. This concept is closely related to the noun `{{G3940}}` (párοikos), meaning "sojourner" or "alien," and `{{G3941}}` (paroikía), referring to "a sojourning" or "a temporary dwelling."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb `{{G3939}}` appears in the New Testament in contexts that underscore its meaning of temporary or foreign residence:
* **[[Luke 24:18]]**: In the account of the Emmaus road, Cleopas asks Jesus, "Are you the only stranger `{{G3939}}` sojourning in Jerusalem and do not know the things which have happened there in these days?" Here, `{{G3939}}` describes a person living temporarily in a place but not fully integrated or aware of its significant events. Cleopas uses it to express surprise that someone could be in Jerusalem without knowledge of the recent crucifixion and resurrection.
* **[[Acts 13:17]]**: Paul, in his sermon at Antioch of Pisidia, recounts Israel's history: "The God of this people Israel chose our fathers and made the people prosper during their sojourn `{{G3939}}` in the land of Egypt, and with an uplifted arm He led them out of it." This usage refers to the historical period when the Israelites lived as non-native residents in Egypt, highlighting their dependent and temporary status before the Exodus. It emphasizes their alien status in a foreign land.
* **[[Hebrews 11:9]]**: Describing Abraham's faith, the author states, "By faith he went to live `{{G3939}}` in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, sojourning in tents with Isaac and Jacob, fellow heirs of the same promise." This verse powerfully illustrates Abraham's life as a sojourner. Despite being in the "land of promise," he lived as a temporary resident, in tents, signifying his non-permanent attachment to the earthly domain and his reliance on God's future fulfillment of the promise. His dwelling was not one of settled ownership but of transient faith.
In each instance, `{{G3939}}` consistently conveys the idea of living in a place not as a native or permanent resident, but as a temporary inhabitant or stranger. This concept is crucial for understanding the identity and calling of God's people.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of `{{G3939}}` is rich with words and concepts related to foreignness, transience, and belonging.
* **`{{G3940}}` (párοikos)**: The noun form, meaning "sojourner," "alien," or "foreigner." Used frequently to describe those who reside in a place without full citizenship rights, often with a sense of temporary residence.
* **`{{G3941}}` (paroikía)**: The abstract noun, meaning "a sojourning," "a temporary dwelling," or "alien residence." It refers to the state or condition of being a sojourner.
* **`{{G3927}}` (parepidēmos)**: Often paired with `{{G3940}}` (e.g., [[1 Peter 2:11]]), meaning "a stranger," "a pilgrim," or "one who comes to a people as a foreigner." It emphasizes a transient stay, often for a specific purpose or journey.
* **`{{G3581}}` (xénos)**: A broader term for "stranger," "foreigner," or "guest." While it can overlap, `{{G3939}}` and its cognates specifically denote dwelling as a non-native.
* **`{{H1481}}` (gûr)**: The Hebrew equivalent, meaning "to sojourn," "to dwell as a stranger," or "to reside temporarily." This concept is pervasive in the Old Testament, describing Israel's experience in Egypt (`{{H4714}}` מִצְרַיִם) and even their relationship to the Promised Land.
* **`{{G4177}}` (politēs)**: "Citizen," standing in contrast to the sojourner who lacks full citizenship. The concept of "heavenly citizenship" (`{{G4177}}` πολίτευμα) in [[Philippians 3:20]] provides a theological counterpoint to earthly sojourning.
* **Pilgrimage and Exile**: These theological concepts are deeply intertwined with `{{G3939}}`. The sojourner is on a journey, often away from their true home, looking forward to a final destination or restoration.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G3939}}` and its related terms is profound, shaping the biblical understanding of God's people.
1. **Old Testament Foundation**: The concept of sojourning is foundational in the Old Testament. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob are consistently portrayed as sojourners in the land God promised them ([[Genesis 23:4]], [[Genesis 28:4]]). Israel's time in Egypt is explicitly described as a sojourn ([[Exodus 12:40]]). Even in the Promised Land, the Israelites were reminded that they were but sojourners and tenants with God ([[Leviticus 25:23]]), for the land ultimately belonged to Him. This established a theological precedent that God's people are never fully "at home" in any earthly domain; their ultimate dwelling is with God.
2. **New Testament Application to Believers**: The New Testament applies this historical reality to the spiritual condition of believers. Just as Abraham lived as a sojourner, trusting in a city with foundations whose architect and builder is God ([[Hebrews 11:10]]), so too are Christians called to live as sojourners and aliens in this world (`{{G3940}}` πάροικοι and `{{G3927}}` παρεπίδημοι, [[1 Peter 2:11]]). This status implies:
* **A Heavenly Orientation**: Believers are not to be fully invested in earthly systems, values, or allegiances, but to seek a heavenly country ([[Hebrews 11:14]]) and to live with their true citizenship in heaven ([[Philippians 3:20]]).
* **Detachment and Dependence**: The sojourner lives with a sense of temporary possession and reliance on divine provision, rather than earthly security. This fosters faith and dependence on God for ultimate inheritance.
* **Ethical Implications**: Living as a sojourner implies a distinct way of life, often counter-cultural, marked by holiness and good conduct among unbelievers ([[1 Peter 2:11-12]]). This separation is not isolation but a distinct witness.
* **Anticipation of the Eschaton**: The sojourning status points to the future hope and the consummation of God's kingdom, when believers will finally be "at home" with God in the new heavens and new earth.
### Summary
The Greek verb `{{G3939}}` (paroikéō) precisely describes the act of dwelling as a foreigner or sojourner, emphasizing a temporary, non-native residence. Its use in the New Testament highlights significant historical periods, such as Israel's time in Egypt, and profoundly shapes the theological identity of believers. From Abraham's faith-filled journey to the New Testament's call for Christians to live as "sojourners and exiles," the concept conveys a spiritual detachment from the present world and an orientation towards a heavenly homeland. This status of being a temporary resident on earth calls believers to live by faith, with a distinct set of values, and in anticipation of their eternal dwelling with God. It is a reminder that while we are in the world, we are not ultimately of it, our true citizenship residing in the eternal kingdom.
TRV