### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pragmateúomai**, represented by `{{G4231}}`, means **to busy oneself with, i.e. to trade**. It appears **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible. This term, derived from πρᾶγμα, conveys the idea of engaging in business or commerce and is translated in its sole appearance as **occupy**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{G4231}}` occurs within a parable told by Jesus. A nobleman, before leaving on a journey, summons his servants and gives them resources to manage in his absence. He commands them, "**Occupy** till I come" [[Luke 19:13]]. In this narrative, the instruction is not merely to wait passively, but to actively engage in business and trade with the pounds they were given, implying a period of productive activity and responsible stewardship.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Luke 19:13]] provide a fuller picture of its meaning:
* `{{G1401}}` **doûlos** (a slave... servant): This identifies the individuals receiving the command. They are **servants** entrusted with their master's property, a theme echoed in [[Philippians 2:7]] where Christ takes the form of a **servant**.
* `{{G1325}}` **dídōmi** (to give): This verb describes the nobleman's action of entrusting his assets. He **delivered** ten pounds to his servants, a gift that came with the expectation of faithful use [[Luke 19:13]]. This is the same word used to describe God's act of giving his Son [[John 3:16]].
* `{{G3414}}` **mnâ** (a mna... pound): This refers to the specific capital, the **pound**, that the servants were to use for trade. The parable later details the returns generated from this initial sum [[Luke 19:16]].
* `{{G2064}}` **érchomai** (to come or go): This word sets the timeframe for the servants' work. Their duty to **occupy** continues until the moment their master is to **come** again, establishing a clear period of accountability [[Luke 19:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4231}}` is concentrated in its single use, highlighting key principles of Christian life:
* **Active Stewardship:** The command to **occupy** is a direct charge to be a faithful steward of God-given resources. The servants are managers, not owners, and are expected to productively use what was **delivered** to them [[Luke 19:13]].
* **Faithful Waiting:** The term redefines waiting for the Lord's return. It is not a passive state but an active one, where believers are to **busy oneself with** the work of the kingdom, using their gifts until Christ comes again.
* **Expected Accountability:** The command is set within the context of the master's eventual return. The act of occupying is directly tied to a future judgment where each **servant** `{{G1401}}` must give an account for their activities.
### Summary
In summary, **pragmateúomai** `{{G4231}}` is a rare but potent word. While it appears only once, its placement in the Parable of the Pounds makes it foundational to the biblical concept of stewardship. It powerfully illustrates that the life of a believer is one of active, productive engagement with the gifts they have received, all in anticipation of the master's return [[Luke 19:13]].
TRV