### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pároikos**, represented by `{{G3941}}`, describes a **foreigner** or an alien resident. Derived from παρά (meaning near) and οἶκος (meaning home), it signifies a by-dweller or one who sojourns in a place that is not their permanent home. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G3941}}` establishes a theme of temporary residence, both literally and spiritually. In the book of Acts, it is used to recount the history of Israel. God foretold that Abraham's seed would **sojourn** in a strange land [[Acts 7:6]]. Later, Moses himself became a **stranger** in the land of Madian after fleeing from Egypt [[Acts 7:29]]. This concept is transformed into a spiritual identity for Christians, who are addressed by Peter as **strangers** and pilgrims in this world [[1 Peter 2:11]]. In contrast, Paul uses the term to highlight the believer's new status, declaring that they are no longer **foreigners** but members of God's household [[Ephesians 2:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the status of believers in relation to the world:
* `{{G3581}}` **xénos**: This word for a **stranger** or alien is used alongside `{{G3941}}` to emphasize the former state of believers as outsiders, separate from God's people [[Ephesians 2:19]].
* `{{G3927}}` **parepídēmos**: Meaning a resident **foreigner** or pilgrim, this term is paired with `{{G3941}}` to describe the Christian's earthly journey as a temporary one, not as a citizen of this world [[1 Peter 2:11]].
* `{{G4847}}` **sympolítēs**: This word for a **fellow-citizen** stands in direct opposition to being a foreigner. It is used to define the new identity of believers who, through Christ, are no longer outsiders but are now **fellowcitizens** with the saints [[Ephesians 2:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3941}}` is significant, charting a journey from alienation to inclusion.
* **A History of Sojourning:** The term is rooted in the history of God's people, describing the literal experience of the Israelite patriarchs as sojourners in foreign lands, as seen with Abraham's descendants [[Acts 7:6]] and Moses [[Acts 7:29]].
* **The Believer's Earthly Status:** `{{G3941}}` is used metaphorically to define the Christian's relationship to the world. As **strangers**, believers are called to live distinct lives, abstaining from worldly desires because their citizenship is not earthly [[1 Peter 2:11]].
* **Redemption from Alienation:** The ultimate use of the term is to show what believers have been saved *from*. Paul's declaration that believers are "no more... **foreigners**" [[Ephesians 2:19]] signifies a complete change in status from being separated from God to being fully integrated into His household.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3941}}` is a term that evolves in meaning from a literal **sojourner** to a profound spiritual metaphor. It encapsulates the historical experience of Israel, defines the Christian's temporary and distinct position in the world, and ultimately celebrates the believer's redemption from being an outsider to becoming a **fellowcitizen** in the household of God. It powerfully illustrates the transition from a state of alienation to one of divine belonging.
TRV