### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pōléō**, represented by `{{G4453}}`, means **to sell**. It appears 24 times across 20 unique verses. The term's base definition is to barter (as a pedlar), i.e. to sell, indicating a commercial transaction. In scripture, its usage ranges from everyday commerce to profound spiritual commands.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{G4453}}` is used in several key contexts. Jesus uses the term to challenge the wealthy, instructing them to **sell** their possessions and give to the poor to gain treasure in heaven ([[Matthew 19:21]], [[Mark 10:21]]). It is also central to the cleansing of the temple, where Jesus drove out those who **sold** oxen, sheep, and doves, condemning the transformation of his Father's house into a house of merchandise ([[Matthew 21:12]], [[John 2:16]]). The word appears in descriptions of common life, such as the selling of sparrows for a farthing [[Matthew 10:29]] and in the daily activities of buying and **selling** in the days of Lot [[Luke 17:28]]. In the early church, believers **sold** their lands and houses to support the community [[Acts 4:34]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the concept of selling and commerce:
* `{{G59}}` **agorázō** (to purchase; buy, redeem): As the direct counterpart to selling, this word often appears alongside `{{G4453}}`. A man **selleth** all that he hath and **buyeth** a field with treasure [[Matthew 13:44]]. In Revelation, it is prophesied that no man might **buy** or **sell** without the mark of the beast [[Revelation 13:17]].
* `{{G5224}}` **hypárchonta** (goods, that which one has, things which (one) possesseth, substance, that hast): This word describes the possessions that Jesus commands his followers to **sell**. For example, "Sell that ye have, and give alms" [[Luke 12:33]].
* `{{G1712}}` **empórion** (a mart ("emporium")): This term describes a place of commerce. Jesus rebuked those who sold doves in the temple, saying, "make not my Father's house an house of **merchandise**" [[John 2:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4453}}` is significant, often illustrating the demands of discipleship and divine priorities.
* **Cost of Discipleship:** The command to **sell** all possessions is a recurring theme that tests a person's willingness to prioritize the kingdom of God above earthly wealth ([[Matthew 19:21]], [[Luke 18:22]]).
* **Sacred vs. Secular:** Jesus's forceful expulsion of those who **sold** goods in the temple underscores a sharp distinction between holy worship and profane commerce [[Mark 11:15]].
* **Communal Provision:** The practice of the early believers, who **sold** their possessions to provide for those in need, demonstrates a radical commitment to communal generosity and mutual support [[Acts 4:34]].
* **Eschatological Control:** In Revelation, the ability to buy or **sell** becomes a tool of systemic control, with allegiance to the beast being a prerequisite for participating in the economy [[Revelation 13:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4453}}` **pōléō** transcends its simple definition of a commercial transaction. It is a pivotal word used by Jesus to teach about sacrifice, by the gospel writers to describe the sanctity of worship, and by the apostles to record the selfless generosity of the early church. From the sale of sparrows to the command to sell everything one owns, the word consistently forces a choice between worldly possessions and heavenly treasure.
TRV