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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
TRV