### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **philóxenos**, represented by `{{G5382}}`, is defined as being "fond of guests" or hospitable. It is formed from the words φίλος (philos) and ξένος (xenos). This term appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses**, where it describes a key Christian virtue of actively welcoming others.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G5382}}` is presented as a non-negotiable requirement for church leadership and a practical instruction for all believers. The apostle Paul includes being "given to hospitality" as a necessary trait for a **bishop** `{{G1985}}` in [[1 Timothy 3:2]]. He repeats this qualification in [[Titus 1:8]], stating a leader must be "a lover of hospitality." The apostle Peter extends this virtue to the wider church, commanding believers to "Use hospitality one to another without grudging" [[1 Peter 4:9]], highlighting it as a fundamental practice of Christian fellowship.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context to the character of one who is `{{G5382}}`:
* `{{G1985}}` **epískopos** (bishop, overseer): This is the primary office for which hospitality is an explicit requirement. A **bishop** is described as a superintendent of the church who must be "given to hospitality" [[1 Timothy 3:2]].
* `{{G5358}}` **philágathos** (lover of good men): This term appears directly alongside `{{G5382}}` in [[Titus 1:8]], linking the love of guests with being a promoter of virtue and goodness.
* `{{G4998}}` **sṓphrōn** (sober, self-controlled): The quality of being sober and sound in mind is listed with hospitality as a requirement for leaders, suggesting that true hospitality stems from a self-controlled and disciplined character ([[1 Timothy 3:2]]; [[Titus 1:8]]).
* `{{G1342}}` **díkaios** (just): The command for a bishop to be a "lover of hospitality" is coupled with the requirement that he be **just** and equitable in character, framing hospitality within a larger context of righteousness [[Titus 1:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5382}}` is demonstrated by its application and context.
* **A Standard for Leadership:** Hospitality is not an optional gift but a mandated characteristic for those in church oversight. Its inclusion in the core qualifications for a **bishop** shows its importance for the spiritual health and example of a church's leadership ([[1 Timothy 3:2]]; [[Titus 1:8]]).
* **A Mark of Christian Community:** The command to "Use hospitality" is a practical outworking of Christian love. The instruction to do so "without grudging" emphasizes that the action should be motivated by a sincere and cheerful heart, strengthening the bonds of fellowship [[1 Peter 4:9]].
* **An Expression of Inner Character:** The term is consistently grouped with other foundational virtues. By being listed with attributes like being **just** `{{G1342}}`, **holy** `{{G3741}}`, and **temperate** `{{G1468}}`, scripture presents hospitality as an outward evidence of a righteous and godly inner life [[Titus 1:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5382}}` is more than a simple instruction to be friendly. Though it appears only three times, it is established as a critical virtue. It serves as a benchmark for spiritual maturity in leadership and a tangible expression of love within the Christian community. As a "lover of guests," a believer demonstrates an inner character that is aligned with other core biblical attributes like justice, holiness, and self-control.
TRV