### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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