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 **plēsíon**, represented by `{{G4139}}`, defines a **neighbor** or a fellow. Appearing **17 times** across **17 unique verses**, this term moves beyond simple proximity to encompass a broad concept of one's fellow man. It is used both adverbially to mean "close by" and as a noun to refer to a countryman, Christian, or friend.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4139}}` is most famously used in the second great commandment, "Thou shalt love thy **neighbour** as thyself," which is repeated across the Gospels and Epistles ([[Matthew 22:39]], [[Romans 13:9]]). The concept is explored deeply in Luke, where a man's question, "And who is my **neighbour**?" [[Luke 10:29]], prompts a parable that redefines the term not by proximity or kinship, but by compassionate action [[Luke 10:36]]. While it can denote geographical closeness, as when Sychar is described as **near** a parcel of ground [[John 4:5]], its primary use is ethical. The term establishes a standard for community conduct, such as speaking truth with a **neighbour** [[Ephesians 4:25]] and working no ill against them [[Romans 13:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and scope of **plēsíon**:
* `{{G2190}}` **echthrós** (enemy): This term provides a direct contrast, as seen in the teaching, "Thou shalt love thy **neighbour**, and hate thine **enemy**" [[Matthew 5:43]]. It highlights the radical nature of loving one's **neighbour** by setting it against its perceived opposite.
* `{{G1785}}` **entolḗ** (commandment): Loving one's **neighbour** is not merely a suggestion but an authoritative prescription. It is called a **commandment** that is greater than all others except loving God [[Mark 12:31]], and it serves as a summary of many other commandments [[Romans 13:9]].
* `{{G240}}` **allḗlōn** (one another): This word emphasizes the mutual relationship between neighbors. Believers are instructed to speak truth with their **neighbour** specifically because they are "members **one of another**" [[Ephesians 4:25]], linking neighborly conduct to shared identity in the community.
* `{{G91}}` **adikéō** (do wrong): This word defines the negative duty toward a neighbor. In Acts, it describes a person who "did his **neighbour** wrong" [[Acts 7:27]], establishing that the relationship with a **plēsíon** involves a responsibility to abstain from injustice and harm.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4139}}` is demonstrated through its central role in defining Christian ethics.
* **The Royal Law:** The command to love one's **neighbour** is explicitly called "the royal **law** according to the **scripture**" [[James 2:8]]. This designation elevates it to a supreme principle of the faith.
* **Fulfillment of the Law:** The concept of **plēsíon** is key to understanding the law's purpose. Love for a **neighbour** is described as "the fulfilling of the law" [[Romans 13:10]], and the entire law is said to be **fulfilled** in this single command [[Galatians 5:14]].
* **A Redefined Community:** The identity of a **neighbour** is expanded beyond tribal or social lines. Jesus's response to the question "who is my **neighbour**?" [[Luke 10:29]] shifts the focus from identity to action, obligating believers to show mercy to anyone in need. This contrasts with the older interpretation to "hate thine **enemy**" [[Matthew 5:43]].
* **Practical Edification:** The relationship with a **neighbour** is the context for practical sanctification. Believers are called to **please** their **neighbour** for their **good** to **edification** [[Romans 15:2]] and to put away **lying** in favor of speaking **truth** [[Ephesians 4:25]].
### Summary
In summary, **plēsíon** `{{G4139}}` transitions from a simple term for someone nearby to a foundational concept in biblical ethics. It is at the heart of the "royal **law**" that governs Christian relationships [[James 2:8]]. Through the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, the definition of **neighbour** is expanded to include any fellow human being, even an **enemy** [[Matthew 5:43]]. Acting rightly toward one's **neighbour**—whether by loving them as oneself [[Mark 12:31]], speaking truth [[Ephesians 4:25]], or seeking their **edification** [[Romans 15:2]]—is presented as the very fulfillment of God's law.
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