The Greek word períergos, represented by G4021, is derived from terms meaning "working all around." It appears 2 times in 2 verses in the Bible. This word carries a dual meaning, referring to both those who are officious and meddlesome (busybodies) and to the practice of forbidden magical or curious arts.
The two uses of G4021 highlight its distinct applications. In Acts, it describes the curious arts practiced by some in Ephesus. Upon their conversion, they brought their books of magic together and burned them publicly Acts 19:19. In contrast, the word is used in 1 Timothy to describe busybodies, who, in their idleness, wander from house to house as tattlers, speaking of things they should not 1 Timothy 5:13.
Several related words clarify the contexts in which G4021 is found:
- G692 argós (idle): Meaning inactive or unemployed, this word describes the state that precedes becoming a busybody. It points to a lack of purposeful work 1 Timothy 5:13.
- G4022 periérchomai (wandering about): This verb, sharing the same root, means to come all around or stroll. It is used to describe the aimless activity that accompanies being idle and leads to meddling 1 Timothy 5:13.
- G5397 phlýaros (tattler): This term for a garrulous person appears directly alongside busybodies, linking meddlesomeness with harmful and inappropriate speech 1 Timothy 5:13.
- G4238 prássō (use arts): This verb means to practice or perform repeatedly. It is used to describe how people "used" the curious arts mentioned in Acts, indicating a habitual involvement in them Acts 19:19.
The concept of G4021 carries significant practical weight, condemning misdirected activity.
- Renunciation of Occultism: The use of the term for "curious arts" is tied directly to repentance. New believers demonstrated their changed lives by destroying the tools of their former magical practices Acts 19:19.
- The Danger of Idleness: In 1 Timothy, being a busybody is presented as a consequence of idleness. This state leads not just to inactivity but to actively harmful behavior like gossiping and meddling in the affairs of others 1 Timothy 5:13.
- Improper Work: The root idea of "working all around" connects both meanings. It describes an expenditure of energy on things that are either spiritually forbidden (magic) or socially destructive (meddling), rather than on one's proper duties.
In summary, G4021 is a focused term that condemns two specific types of improper "work." It labels both the forbidden, supernatural dealings of curious arts and the socially disruptive behavior of busybodies. In both instances, the word warns against expending energy outside of one's God-given responsibilities, whether by delving into occult practices or by meddling in the lives of others.
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