from (to crouch); akin to πτοέω and the alternate of πίπτω); a beggar (as cringing), i.e. pauper (strictly denoting absolute or public mendicancy, although also used in a qualified or relative sense; whereas πένης properly means only straitened circumstances in private), literally (often as noun) or figuratively (distressed):--beggar(-ly), poor.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ptōchós**, represented by `{{G4434}}`, is a term for a **beggar** or **pauper**. It appears **34 times** across **34 unique verses** in the Bible. The definition denotes absolute or public mendicancy, describing someone who is utterly destitute. This word is applied both literally to those in material poverty and figuratively to those experiencing spiritual distress.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4434}}` is used to define a central focus of Jesus's ministry, which is "to preach the gospel to the **poor**" [[Luke 4:18]]. The term describes a physical condition, as with the **beggar** Lazarus [[Luke 16:20]], as well as a spiritual one, as in the blessing for the "**poor** in spirit" [[Matthew 5:3]]. The Bible frequently instructs believers to care for the **poor** by selling possessions and giving to them [[Matthew 19:21]]. Figuratively, it is used to describe a church that considers itself rich but is spiritually "wretched, and miserable, and **poor**, and blind, and naked" [[Revelation 3:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of poverty and need:
* `{{G4145}}` **ploúsios** (rich): This word serves as a direct contrast, often used to differentiate between the materially wealthy and the **poor** ([[Revelation 13:16]], [[James 2:6]]).
* `{{G1325}}` **dídōmi** (to give): This action is consistently linked to interactions with the **poor**. Jesus commands his followers to **give** to the **poor** [[Mark 10:21]], and Zacchaeus declares his intent to **give** half of his goods to them [[Luke 19:8]].
* `{{G5185}}` **typhlós** (blind): This term frequently appears alongside **poor**, maimed, and lame to describe those who are the focus of ministry and are invited into God's kingdom ([[Luke 14:13]], [[Luke 14:21]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4434}}` is significant, highlighting key principles of the kingdom of God.
* **Spiritual Dependence:** The concept of being "**poor** in spirit" is presented as a blessed state, indicating that acknowledging one's spiritual bankruptcy is essential for inheriting the kingdom of heaven [[Matthew 5:3]].
* **Object of Divine Mission:** Jesus identifies preaching the gospel to the **poor** as a core component of His mission and a sign of His identity ([[Luke 4:18]], [[Matthew 11:5]]). God chooses the **poor** of the world to be rich in faith [[James 2:5]].
* **Evidence of Discipleship:** Caring for the **poor** is a practical outworking of faith. Believers are called to remember [[Galatians 2:10]] and make contributions for the **poor** [[Romans 15:26]], and doing so is linked to laying up treasure in heaven [[Luke 18:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4434}}` defines a state of profound need that extends beyond material lack to spiritual destitution. It identifies those who are the special focus of Christ's redemptive work, from the literal **beggar** on the street to the humble in spirit. The word underscores a central biblical theme: the kingdom of God brings good news to the destitute and calls for a compassionate response from all who follow Christ.
TRV