contracted from (to traverse; from the base of πέραν); to traffic (by travelling), i.e. dispose of as merchandise or into slavery (literally or figuratively):--sell.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pipráskō**, represented by `{{G4097}}`, means to traffic or dispose of something as merchandise or into slavery. It is most commonly translated as to **sell**. The word appears **10 times** across **9 unique verses** in the Bible, conveying both literal and figurative transactions. Its base definition points to the act of trafficking by travelling, highlighting the commercial nature of the term.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4097}}` is used to describe the selling of various items and even people. In the early church, believers **sold** their possessions and goods to care for those in need [[Acts 2:45]]. The term is also used in a parable where a lord commands a servant, his **wife** `{{G1135}}`, and **children** `{{G5043}}` to be **sold** to make payment on a debt [[Matthew 18:25]]. Critically, the word takes on a figurative meaning when Paul describes his internal struggle, stating he is **carnal** `{{G4559}}`, **sold** under sin [[Romans 7:14]], illustrating a state of bondage.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of selling and transactions:
* `{{G4453}}` **pōléō** (sell): A close synonym also meaning to **sell**, often used when commanding someone to dispose of their possessions for a higher purpose, such as when Jesus tells the rich young man to **sell** all he has [[Matthew 19:21]]. It appears alongside `{{G4097}}` in describing how the early church **sold** lands and houses [[Acts 4:34]].
* `{{G59}}` **agorázō** (buy, redeem): As the counterpart to selling, this word means to purchase or **buy**. In the parable of the pearl of great price, a merchant **sold** `{{G4097}}` all he had in order to **buy** `{{G59}}` the one pearl [[Matthew 13:46]].
* `{{G591}}` **apodídōmi** (repay, render, sell): This word is connected to the concept of making a payment or restoring what is due. In the parable of the indebted servant, the command to be **sold** `{{G4097}}` was so that "payment to be made" `{{G591}}` could occur [[Matthew 18:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4097}}` is significant, highlighting themes of value, sacrifice, and bondage.
* **Radical Generosity:** The act of selling possessions by the early church demonstrates a community prioritizing people over property, ensuring that no one was **lacking** `{{G1729}}` among them ([[Acts 2:45]], [[Acts 4:34]]). This sets a high standard for Christian charity.
* **The Supreme Value of the Kingdom:** In the parable of the pearl of great price, a man **sold** everything he had for a single **pearl** `{{G3135}}`, illustrating that the Kingdom of Heaven is worth more than all worldly possessions combined [[Matthew 13:46]].
* **Bondage to Sin:** Paul’s statement that he is "**sold** under sin" [[Romans 7:14]] provides a powerful metaphor for humanity's fallen condition. It portrays sin as a master that has purchased and now owns the carnal self, making one a slave to its power, in contrast to the **law** `{{G3551}}` which is spiritual.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4097}}` moves beyond a simple commercial transaction. While it describes the literal selling of goods like **ointment** `{{G3464}}` and the tragic selling of people into servitude, its most profound use is figurative. The word serves as a powerful illustration of core spiritual truths, contrasting the fleeting value of earthly goods with the eternal worth of the kingdom and framing the human struggle as a form of being **sold** into bondage to sin.
TRV