feminine of a presumed derivative apparently from the base of χάσμα through the idea of deficiency; a widow (as lacking a husband), literally or figuratively:--widow.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **chḗra**, represented by `{{G5503}}`, is the term for **widow**. It appears 27 times across 25 unique verses, literally or figuratively describing a woman lacking a husband. This status often signified a state of deficiency and vulnerability in the biblical world, placing widows in a special category of concern and care within the community of faith.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{G5503}}` highlights a range of social and spiritual conditions. Widows are portrayed as vulnerable members of society, susceptible to neglect [[Acts 6:1]] and exploitation by religious leaders who "devour **widows**' houses" [[Luke 20:47]]. At the same time, they are presented as models of faith and piety. Jesus praises the sacrificial giving of a poor **widow** at the temple treasury [[Luke 21:3]], and Anna is described as a devout **widow** who served God constantly in the temple [[Luke 2:37]]. The term is also used figuratively, as when the city of Babylon defiantly claims, "am no **widow**," denying its impending desolation [[Revelation 18:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to contextualize the status and life of a `{{G5503}}` **chḗra**:
* `{{G1135}}` **gynḗ** (a woman; specially, a wife): This word defines the widow's former status. To be taken into the number for church support, a widow must have been the **wife** of one man [[1 Timothy 5:9]].
* `{{G3737}}` **orphanós** (bereaved ("orphan"), i.e. parentless): This term is frequently paired with widows to represent the most vulnerable. Pure religion is defined by visiting the **fatherless** and widows in their affliction [[James 1:27]].
* `{{G1060}}` **gaméō** (to wed (of either sex)): This addresses the question of remarriage for a widow. Younger widows are described as desiring to **marry** [[1 Timothy 5:11]], and the apostle advises widows and the unmarried `{{G22}}` about their state [[1 Corinthians 7:8]].
* `{{G4434}}` **ptōchós** (a beggar ... pauper ... poor): This adjective often describes the economic state of widows. Jesus extols the faith of a **poor** widow who gave all she had [[Mark 12:42-43]].
### Theological Significance
The concept of the `{{G5503}}` **chḗra** carries significant theological weight, often highlighting God's concern for justice and the responsibilities of the faithful.
* **God's Justice for the Vulnerable:** The widow is a key figure representing those who need divine protection. God's character is revealed in the expectation that his people care for them [[James 1:27]], and judgment is pronounced on those who exploit them [[Matthew 23:14]].
* **The Church's Responsibility:** The early church established practical systems, such as the daily ministration `{{G1248}}`, for the care of widows [[Acts 6:1]]. Detailed instructions are given to **honour** `{{G5091}}` and relieve them, making their support a foundational practice of the Christian community ([[1 Timothy 5:3]], [[1 Timothy 5:16]]).
* **Models of Faith and Devotion:** A "widow indeed" is one who **trusteth** `{{G1679}}` in God and is devoted to prayer night and day [[1 Timothy 5:5]]. Figures like the widow of Sarepta [[Luke 4:26]] and the widow at the treasury [[Mark 12:42]] serve as powerful examples of faith.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5503}}` is far more than a simple demographic label. It represents a person in a state of vulnerability for whom God and His people have a special concern. The term is used to define a core tenet of pure **religion** `{{G2356}}`, to illustrate deep faith in the face of poverty, and to serve as a powerful metaphor for desolation. Through the figure of the widow, scripture reveals the character of God as a defender of the helpless and outlines the church's duty to practice justice and compassion.
TRV