### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pároinos**, represented by `{{G3943}}`, literally means "staying near wine." Its definition expands to describe one who is tippling or a toper, translated as **given to wine**. It appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, where it is used to identify a negative character trait that is unsuitable for spiritual leadership.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G3943}}` appears exclusively in lists of disqualifications for church leaders. In Titus, it is stated that a bishop, as a steward of God, must not be **given to wine** [[Titus 1:7]]. This instruction is repeated in the qualifications found in 1 Timothy, where leaders are similarly warned against being **given to wine** [[1 Timothy 3:3]]. In both instances, the term is part of a series of negative attributes that are contrary to the required blameless character of a leader.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words appear alongside `{{G3943}}`, painting a broader picture of the character traits to be avoided:
* `{{G4131}}` **plḗktēs** (a smiter, i.e. pugnacious (quarrelsome):--striker): This term appears in both verses with `{{G3943}}`, linking the overindulgence in wine with a quarrelsome or violent nature ([[Titus 1:7]], [[1 Timothy 3:3]]).
* `{{G3711}}` **orgílos** (irascible:--soon angry): In the list of qualifications for a bishop, being **soon angry** is presented alongside being "given to wine," suggesting a connection between a lack of self-control in temper and drink [[Titus 1:7]].
* `{{G146}}` **aischrokerdḗs** (sordid:--given to (greedy of) filthy lucre): A desire for dishonest gain is another disqualifying trait mentioned in both contexts, highlighting that a leader's character should be free from the control of worldly appetites, whether for wine or money ([[Titus 1:7]], [[1 Timothy 3:3]]).
* `{{G269}}` **ámachos** (peaceable:--not a brawler): This quality is listed as a positive alternative in 1 Timothy, directly contrasting the negative traits of being a striker or given to wine [[1 Timothy 3:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3943}}` is centered on the standard of character required for spiritual oversight.
* **A Benchmark for Leadership:** The term is used as a specific prohibition that disqualifies a person from roles like a bishop, establishing a clear standard of temperance and self-control [[Titus 1:7]].
* **A Pattern of Uncontrolled Behavior:** Its placement next to traits like being "soon angry" `{{G3711}}`, a "striker" `{{G4131}}`, and "given to filthy lucre" `{{G146}}` indicates a broader theological concern with a life not governed by self-discipline.
* **Contrast with Godly Stewardship:** The use of `{{G3943}}` as a negative attribute helps define what a "steward of God" should not be, thereby emphasizing the positive virtues of being blameless, patient, and not a brawler ([[Titus 1:7]], [[1 Timothy 3:3]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3943}}` is a specific and potent term used to forbid a lifestyle of indulgence in wine for church leaders. While it appears only twice, its context is significant, framing it as a key indicator of a character unfit for spiritual responsibility. It is consistently associated with other failures of self-control, such as anger, violence, and greed, underscoring the high value placed on a temperate and disciplined life for those who serve as stewards of God.
TRV