### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **chreōpheilétēs**, represented by `{{G5533}}`, is defined as a **debtor** or a loan-ower. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is derived from words that together describe an indebted person.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5533}}` is used exclusively within parables in the Gospel of Luke. In one instance, it describes two **debtors** who owe different amounts to a single creditor, illustrating a lesson on forgiveness [[Luke 7:41]]. It is also used in a parable about a steward who calls together his lord's **debtors** to settle accounts, highlighting a theme of accountability to a master [[Luke 16:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concept of debt and obligation:
* `{{G1157}}` **daneistḗs** (a lender): This is the direct counterpart to a debtor, the one to whom a debt is owed. It is used in the parable of the two debtors to identify the **creditor** [[Luke 7:41]].
* `{{G2962}}` **kýrios** (master): This term denotes one who is supreme in authority. In the context of debt, it identifies the **lord** to whom the debtors are accountable [[Luke 16:5]].
* `{{G3784}}` **opheílō** (to owe): This verb describes the state of being indebted. It is used to specify what the debtors **owed** [[Luke 7:41]] and also to express a broader sense of moral obligation or duty [[Romans 13:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5533}}` is primarily established through its use in parables:
* **Financial Accountability:** The term directly addresses being an indebted person in a financial sense, providing a clear and relatable picture of owing something to another. Both uses of the word are in the context of a person being called to account for what they **owe** ([[Luke 7:41]], [[Luke 16:5]]).
* **Relationship to Authority:** The **debtors** are always presented in relation to a figure of authority, either a **creditor** `{{G1157}}` or a **lord** `{{G2962}}`. This frames debt not just as a financial state but as a relationship of obligation to a master.
* **Metaphor for Obligation:** While `{{G5533}}` is literal, the related concept of "owing," `{{G3784}}`, is used figuratively to describe a moral duty. This includes the obligation to love others [[Romans 13:8]] and the duty that was fulfilled by servants [[Luke 17:10]], expanding the idea of debt into the spiritual realm.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5533}}` is a specific term for a person who is financially indebted. Its use is confined to parables in Luke that illustrate concepts of forgiveness and accountability. Through its connection to related terms like **creditor** `{{G1157}}`, **lord** `{{G2962}}`, and the act of owing `{{G3784}}`, the word **chreōpheilétēs** serves as a concrete foundation for the broader biblical themes of moral obligation and our relationship to a higher authority.
TRV