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.
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.
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.
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.
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