middle voice of a primary verb (perhaps rather from χείρ, to handle); to furnish what is needed; (give an oracle, "graze" (touch slightly), light upon, etc.), i.e. (by implication) to employ or (by extension) to act towards one in a given manner:--entreat, use. Compare χράω; χρή.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb χράομαι (chráomai, `{{G5530}}`) is a middle voice form of a primary verb, suggesting an action performed by the subject for its own benefit or with its own involvement. Its core meaning revolves around the concept of "to use," "to employ," or "to make use of." The etymological note, "perhaps rather from χείρ (cheir, `{{G5495}}`), to handle," reinforces the idea of practical engagement, manipulation, or application. Its semantic range is broad, encompassing:
1. **Instrumental Use**: The literal employment of an object or tool for a specific purpose.
2. **Application of Rights or Privileges**: The exercise or non-exercise of an entitlement.
3. **Manner of Conduct**: How one behaves or interacts with something or someone, implying a particular approach or disposition.
4. **Beneficial or Detrimental Use**: The outcome or intention behind the application, often with ethical implications.
The parenthetical notes in the Strong's definition — "give an oracle," "graze (touch slightly)," "light upon" — hint at a wider, more nuanced range of interaction, from authoritative pronouncement to incidental contact, though these specific nuances are less prominent in the New Testament occurrences.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of χράομαι in the New Testament primarily appear in the Pauline epistles and the book of Acts, consistently reflecting the core meaning of "to use" or "to employ" in various contexts:
* **Instrumental Use**: In [[Acts 27:17]], during a violent storm at sea, sailors "used cables to undergird the ship." Here, χράομαι describes the practical, instrumental application of a physical object for a specific purpose (stabilizing the ship).
* **Manner of Engagement with the World**: [[1 Corinthians 7:31]] exhorts believers, "and those who use the world, as though they did not make full use of it; for the form of this world is passing away." This crucial verse employs χράομαι to describe the believer's engagement with worldly affairs. It is not a call to asceticism, but to a detached, non-possessive use, recognizing the transient nature of the present age.
* **Application of Rights and Privileges**: Paul frequently uses χράομαι when discussing his apostolic rights. In [[1 Corinthians 9:12]], he states, "If others share in this right over you, do not we even more? Nevertheless, we have not made use of this right, but we endure everything so that we will cause no hindrance to the gospel of Christ." Similarly, in [[1 Corinthians 9:15]], he declares, "But I have used none of these things." Here, χράομαι highlights a deliberate choice not to exercise a legitimate right (to receive financial support) for the sake of the gospel's advancement, demonstrating self-sacrifice and humility.
* **Lawful and Proper Application**: [[1 Timothy 1:8]] states, "But we know that the Law is good, if one uses it lawfully." This verse underscores that the value of something (in this case, the Law) is contingent upon its proper and ethical application. Misuse or unlawful application can render even a good thing detrimental.
* **Practical and Medicinal Use**: In [[1 Timothy 5:23]], Paul advises Timothy, "No longer drink water exclusively, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments." This is a straightforward, practical application of χράομαι for health and well-being, illustrating that faith embraces common sense and beneficial practices.
Across these contexts, χράομαι consistently points to the active, intentional employment of something, often with an ethical or pragmatic dimension.
### Related Words & Concepts
The Strong's definition notes connections to χράω (chraō), the active voice of the verb, which can mean "to utter an oracle" or "to proclaim," and χρή (chrē), an impersonal verb meaning "it is necessary" or "it is proper." These connections suggest a broader semantic field related to what is *done*, *proclaimed*, or *required*.
Other related concepts include:
* **Stewardship**: The idea of managing resources, time, gifts, or privileges responsibly, as seen in the detached "use of the world" ([[1 Corinthians 7:31]]).
* **Christian Liberty and Self-Control**: The choice to exercise or forgo rights, as exemplified by Paul's refusal to "make use of" his apostolic entitlements ([[1 Corinthians 9:12]]). This relates to the broader New Testament theme of freedom in Christ balanced with love for others and the advancement of the gospel.
* **Discernment and Wisdom**: The emphasis on "using it lawfully" ([[1 Timothy 1:8]]) implies the need for spiritual and practical wisdom in determining the appropriate application of principles and resources.
* **Purposeful Living**: The consistent usage of χράομαι highlights that believers are called to live intentionally, applying their resources and conduct toward God-honoring ends.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of χράομαι is profound, shaping our understanding of Christian living:
* **Stewardship of All Things**: The word underscores that believers are stewards, not ultimate owners, of what they possess or encounter. This applies to material wealth, time, spiritual gifts, and even the "world" itself. The command to "use the world as though not using it to the full" ([[1 Corinthians 7:31]]) is a call to radical detachment from worldly attachments, recognizing the eschatological reality of its passing form. This fosters a pilgrim mentality, where earthly resources are utilized for heavenly purposes.
* **Ethical Application and Lawful Use**: χράομαι highlights the critical distinction between possessing something and using it righteously. The Law, though good, requires "lawful" use ([[1 Timothy 1:8]]), implying that even divine revelation can be misapplied or distorted. This principle extends to all aspects of life, demanding ethical discernment in how we employ our freedoms, abilities, and resources.
* **Sacrifice and Service for the Gospel**: Paul's repeated use of χράομαι concerning his apostolic rights ([[1 Corinthians 9:12]], [[1 Corinthians 9:15]]) reveals a powerful theological truth: Christian liberty, while legitimate, may be voluntarily constrained for the greater good of the gospel. This exemplifies Christ-like self-emptying and prioritizing the spiritual welfare of others over personal gain or comfort. It speaks to the sacrificial nature of true discipleship.
* **Integration of Faith and Practicality**: The use of χράομαι in practical advice, such as [[1 Timothy 5:23]], demonstrates that faith is not an abstract concept but is deeply intertwined with daily life and common sense. Christian living is not about rigid legalism but about wise and beneficial application of resources and knowledge in light of God's wisdom.
### Summary
The Greek word χράομαι (chráomai, `{{G5530}}`) serves as a potent term in the New Testament, primarily conveying the meaning "to use" or "to employ." As a middle voice verb, it emphasizes the subject's active engagement with or beneficial application of something. Its occurrences in Scripture provide critical insights into Christian discipleship, ranging from the instrumental use of objects ([[Acts 27:17]]) to profound ethical and theological principles.
Theologically, χράομαι undergirds the concept of **stewardship**, urging believers to engage with the world and its resources with a detached, purposeful attitude, recognizing their transient nature ([[1 Corinthians 7:31]]). It underscores the necessity of **lawful and ethical application**, reminding us that even good things, like the Law, must be used correctly to be beneficial ([[1 Timothy 1:8]]). Furthermore, the term vividly illustrates the principle of **Christian liberty and sacrifice**, as exemplified by Paul's choice to forgo legitimate apostolic rights for the sake of the gospel's advance ([[1 Corinthians 9:12]]). Finally, χrάομαι highlights the **practicality of faith**, integrating spiritual wisdom with common sense in daily life ([[1 Timothy 5:23]]). In essence, χράομαι calls believers to intentional and responsible living, examining not only *what* they possess but *how* they apply it to honor God, serve others, and further His Kingdom.
TRV