### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **paroikía**, represented by `{{G3940}}`, defines a **foreign residence**. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The term carries the core meaning of a temporary state of being, translated as **sojourning** or dwelling **as strangers**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G3940}}` illustrates both a historical and a spiritual condition. It is used in Acts to describe the historical experience of the Israelites, whom God exalted after they **dwelt as strangers** in the land of Egypt [[Acts 13:17]]. In the New Testament epistles, the concept is applied to the believer's life on earth. Peter urges believers to live out the time of their **sojourning** in fear, recognizing God the Father as an impartial judge [[1 Peter 1:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help clarify the nature of this sojourning:
* `{{G3962}}` **patḗr** (a "father"): This word is central to both occurrences. In Acts, God chose "our **fathers**," and in 1 Peter, believers are to conduct their sojourning in reverence to the **Father** they call upon.
* `{{G1941}}` **epikaléomai** (to invoke): This term describes the believer's relationship with the Father during their sojourn; they **call on** Him, which establishes the basis for their accountability [[1 Peter 1:17]].
* `{{G2919}}` **krínō** (to distinguish, i.e. decide): This word highlights the reality of divine judgment that frames the sojourner's life. The Father **judgeth** every person's work without partiality [[1 Peter 1:17]].
* `{{G5550}}` **chrónos** (a space of time): This specifies that the sojourning is for a limited duration, a **time** that believers must pass in a specific manner [[1 Peter 1:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G3940}}` is focused on the identity of God's people.
* **Historical Precedent:** The term grounds the Christian experience in the story of Israel. Their time as strangers in Egypt serves as a physical picture of the spiritual reality for believers [[Acts 13:17]].
* **The Believer as a Pilgrim:** It establishes the Christian's life on earth as a temporary journey, not a final destination. This "sojourning" implies a true, heavenly home for which the believer waits.
* **Accountable Living:** This sojourn is not a passive waiting period but an active time of moral and spiritual responsibility. It is to be conducted "in fear," conscious that one's actions are seen and judged by the Father [[1 Peter 1:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3940}}` provides a crucial framework for understanding the believer's position in the world. It shifts the perspective from earthly belonging to a temporary, foreign residence. By connecting the historical experience of Israel with the spiritual life of the Christian, it defines our earthly existence as a purposeful pilgrimage conducted with reverence and accountability before God the Father.
TRV