neuter of a derivative of (near); (adverbially) close by; as noun, a neighbor, i.e. fellow (as man, countryman, Christian or friend):--near, neighbour.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word πλησίον (plēsíon, `{{G4139}}`) primarily functions as an adverb meaning "near" or "close by." However, its most significant usage in the biblical context is as a substantive (a noun or adjective used as a noun), where it denotes a "neighbor." This "neighbor" is not merely someone in physical proximity but carries a rich semantic range encompassing a fellow human being, a compatriot, a fellow believer, or even a friend. The root idea of "nearness" extends beyond mere physical distance to imply a relational, social, or moral closeness. Thus, πλησίον refers to anyone with whom one has a relationship, whether direct or indirect, and towards whom one has a responsibility.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The usage of πλησίον in the New Testament is deeply rooted in its Septuagint (LXX) translation of the Hebrew term רֵעַ (reaʿ, `{{H7453}}`), which similarly signifies a "friend," "companion," or "neighbor." This connection is crucial for understanding its ethical weight.
The most prominent occurrences of πλησίον are found in the Synoptic Gospels, particularly in the context of the "Great Commandment." Jesus affirms the dual command to love God and to "love your neighbor as yourself" ([[Matthew 22:39]], [[Mark 12:31]], [[Luke 10:27]]), drawing directly from [[Leviticus 19:18]]. The Parable of the Good Samaritan in [[Luke 10:29-37]] serves as a profound redefinition of πλησίον. When the expert in the law asks, "And who is my neighbor?" ([[Luke 10:29]]), Jesus's parable challenges the narrow, ethnocentric understanding prevalent at the time. The Samaritan, traditionally despised, acts as the true "neighbor" by showing mercy to the wounded man, thereby expanding the definition of πλησίον to anyone in need, regardless of ethnic, religious, or social affiliation.
Pauline epistles frequently echo this command. In [[Romans 13:9-10]], Paul asserts that the commandments are summed up in the single command to "love your neighbor as yourself," emphasizing that "love does no wrong to a neighbor." Similarly, [[Galatians 5:14]] states, "For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'" This highlights love for πλησίον as the practical outworking of the Law. Paul also uses the term in discussions about Christian liberty and responsibility, urging believers not to please themselves but to "please his neighbor for his good, to build him up" ([[Romans 15:2]]), and to seek the good of others, not just their own ([[1 Corinthians 10:24]]).
The Epistle of James refers to the command to love one's neighbor as the "royal law" ([[James 2:8]]), underscoring its supreme importance and warning against partiality, which violates this law.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of πλησίον intersects with several key biblical concepts and other Greek words:
* **Hebrew Counterpart:** Its primary Old Testament antecedent in the LXX is רֵעַ (reaʿ, `{{H7453}}`), which denotes a fellow human being, friend, or associate.
* **Love:** The concept of ἀγάπη (agapē, `{{G26}}`, selfless love) is inextricably linked with πλησίον, as the command is always to "love your neighbor."
* **Nearness/Proximity:** While πλησίον can function adverbially as "near," other words like ἐγγύς (engys, `{{G1451}}`) also convey physical closeness. However, πλησίον's strength lies in its relational implication.
* **Fellowship/Community:** Concepts like ἀδελφός (adelphos, `{{G80}}`, brother) or πολίτης (politēs, `{{G4177}}`, fellow citizen) share a common ground with πλησίον in describing communal bonds, though πλησίον extends beyond specific group affiliations.
* **Mercy and Compassion:** The actions associated with loving one's πλησίον, particularly demonstrated in the Parable of the Good Samaritan, are acts of ἔλεος (eleos, `{{G1656}}`, mercy) and σπλαγχνίζομαι (splagchnizomai, `{{G4697}}`, to have compassion).
* **The Golden Rule:** The principle of treating others as one would wish to be treated (e.g., [[Matthew 7:12]]) is a practical expression of loving one's πλησίον.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of πλησίον is profound and central to biblical ethics:
1. **Core of the Law:** The command to love one's πλησίον is presented as the second greatest commandment, foundational to human relationships and the practical outworking of faith. It encapsulates the horizontal dimension of God's Law, complementing the vertical love for God.
2. **Redefinition of Inclusivity:** Jesus's teaching, especially in the Parable of the Good Samaritan, radically redefines "neighbor." It transcends ethnic, religious, national, and social boundaries, extending the sphere of ethical responsibility to *anyone* in need. This challenges human tendencies towards exclusivity and tribalism, promoting universal compassion.
3. **Imitation of God:** Loving one's neighbor reflects the very character of God, who shows indiscriminate love and mercy to all, including enemies and the unrighteous ([[Matthew 5:44-45]]).
4. **Practical Faith:** True faith is not merely intellectual assent but is demonstrated through concrete actions of love and service towards one's πλησίον. The Epistle of James explicitly links faith and works through this command ([[James 2:8-17]]).
5. **Basis for Social Ethics:** The concept of πλησίον provides a robust theological foundation for social justice, care for the marginalized, and the pursuit of peace and harmony within communities. It demands active engagement in alleviating suffering and promoting the well-being of others.
6. **Christocentric Example:** Jesus Christ Himself embodies the ultimate "neighbor," demonstrating self-sacrificial love for humanity, even for those who were His enemies. His life and death serve as the supreme example of what it means to truly love one's πλησίον.
### Summary
The Greek word πλησίον (plēsíon, `{{G4139}}`), while meaning "near" as an adverb, primarily functions in the New Testament as "neighbor." Rooted in the Old Testament concept of a fellow human being, its meaning is profoundly expanded by Jesus, especially in the Parable of the Good Samaritan, to encompass anyone in need, regardless of background. This radical redefinition underscores the universal scope of Christian love and responsibility. The command to "love your neighbor as yourself" is presented as a summary of the Law, a core expression of genuine faith, and a foundational principle for social ethics, reflecting the very character of God and the example of Christ. It calls believers to selfless compassion and active service towards all humanity.
TRV