### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **polítēs**, represented by `{{G4177}}`, defines a **townsman** or **citizen**. Derived from `{{G4172}}` **pólis** (city), it appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The term establishes an individual's membership and belonging within a specific city or country.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4177}}` carries distinct contexts of belonging and allegiance. In a parable, a group of **citizens** hated a nobleman and rejected his authority, sending a message that they would not have him reign over them [[Luke 19:14]]. In the story of the prodigal son, the son "joined himself to a **citizen** of that country" for employment, highlighting a connection based on residence [[Luke 15:15]]. The Apostle Paul also used the term to establish his own standing, identifying himself as a **citizen** "of no mean city" when referring to his home, Tarsus [[Acts 21:39]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of citizenship:
* `{{G4172}}` **pólis** (city): As the root of **polítēs**, this word signifies the town or walled city to which a **citizen** belongs. Paul uses it to describe Tarsus as a significant **city** [[Acts 21:39]].
* `{{G5561}}` **chṓra** (country): This term denotes a region or land. It is used to describe the place where the prodigal son finds a **citizen** to whom he attaches himself [[Luke 15:15]].
* `{{G936}}` **basileúō** (to reign): This word is central to the parable where the **citizens** refuse to let the nobleman **reign** over them, linking citizenship directly to governance and submission [[Luke 19:14]].
* `{{G4242}}` **presbeía** (ambassage, message): The act of sending a **message** was the method the **citizens** used to formally express their collective rejection of a ruler, demonstrating an exercise of their civic position [[Luke 19:14]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G4177}}` lies in its focus on identity, place, and allegiance.
* **Identity and Standing:** Paul’s declaration of being a **citizen** of Tarsus was not merely a statement of origin but an assertion of his status and rights, which he used to gain a platform to speak [[Acts 21:39]].
* **Allegiance and Choice:** The parable of the nobleman shows that citizenship involves a relationship with authority. The **citizens** in the story exercise their will by rejecting the nobleman's rule, highlighting that allegiance is not always automatic [[Luke 19:14]].
* **Geographical Belonging:** The term can describe a person’s simple status as an inhabitant of a particular land, as seen when the prodigal son joins a **citizen** of a foreign country [[Luke 15:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4177}}` **polítēs**, while appearing infrequently, clearly defines an individual's connection to a specific locale. It encompasses the legal identity of belonging to a city, the political dynamic of allegiance to a ruler, and the simple fact of residing in a country. The term underscores that being a **citizen** establishes a person's place and standing within a larger community.
TRV