The Greek word philonexía, represented by G5381, means hospitality or the act of entertaining strangers. According to its base definition, it signifies hospitableness. This word appears 2 times in 2 unique verses, highlighting its specific application within the New Testament as an important Christian virtue.
In its biblical occurrences, G5381 is presented as a practical instruction for believers. In Romans, it is connected to the tangible support of fellow Christians, urging believers to be "given to hospitality" as part of distributing to the needs of the saints Romans 12:13. In Hebrews, the concept is framed as a command to remember, stating, "Be not forgetful to entertain strangers," and provides the example that some have entertained angels without knowing it Hebrews 13:2.
Several related words provide a fuller context for the practice of hospitality:
- G1377 diṓkō (to pursue): This word, used in Romans 12:13, frames hospitality not as a passive quality but as something to be actively pursued. The definition "to pursue (literally or figuratively)" shows it as an intentional action, just as believers are to "Follow G1377 peace" Hebrews 12:14.
- G1950 epilanthánomai (to lose out of mind; by implication, to neglect): This term is used in the negative in Hebrews 13:2, commanding believers "not G3361 forgetful G1950" to be hospitable. It underscores hospitality as a duty that must not be neglected.
- G2841 koinōnéō (to share with others): Appearing in Romans 12:13 as "Distributing," this word links hospitality to the broader theme of sharing and being a partaker. Believers are to "communicate G2841 unto him that teacheth in all good things" Galatians 6:6.
- G3579 xenízō (to be a host; to entertain): This verb describes the specific action of hospitality. In Hebrews 13:2, it is used to state that some have "entertained G3579 angels." It can also mean to lodge someone, as when Peter "lodged G3579 them" Acts 10:23.
The concept of G5381 carries significant weight, emphasizing key aspects of Christian conduct.
- An Active Pursuit: Hospitality is not a passive disposition but an action to be actively "given to" or pursued G1377, as commanded in Romans 12:13. It is a deliberate practice, linked to other actions like distributing to the needs of the saints.
- A Conscious Duty: The command to "Be not forgetful" G1950 highlights hospitality as a moral and spiritual responsibility that requires conscious effort and remembrance Hebrews 13:2.
- Unexpected Significance: The act of showing hospitality to strangers can have unseen spiritual importance, as demonstrated by the reminder that some have unknowingly "entertained angels" Hebrews 13:2.
In summary, G5381 philonexía defines a foundational Christian practice. Far from being a mere suggestion, it is presented as an active pursuit and a conscious duty. Through its connection with caring for the saints and the potential for encountering the divine in unexpected ways, hospitality is shown to be a vital expression of faith, linking the practical act of entertaining strangers to a life of mindful service and fellowship.
TRV