### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **chrḗizō**, represented by `{{G5535}}`, defines the state of having a necessity or being in want of something. It is derived from the word for necessity, χρεία. According to usage statistics, it is a focused term, appearing just **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible, where it is translated as "have need," "needeth," or "need."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{G5535}}` is used to describe both material and relational needs. In the context of divine provision, Jesus assures his followers that their heavenly Father already knows they "have **need**" of physical necessities like food and clothing ([[Matthew 6:32]]; [[Luke 12:30]]). The term also applies to human-to-human interaction, such as when a persistent friend receives what he "needeath" [[Luke 11:8]], or when Paul instructs the Roman believers to assist Phoebe in whatever business she "hath **need**" of them [[Romans 16:2]]. In a rhetorical sense, Paul questions whether he and his companions "need" letters of commendation, contrasting a perceived requirement with a truer, spiritual reality [[2 Corinthians 3:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the concept of need and its fulfillment:
* `{{G1492}}` **eídō** (to know): This word is directly linked to God's providence. In both Matthew and Luke, the comfort given to believers is that their Father "**knoweth**" that they have need ([[Matthew 6:32]]; [[Luke 12:30]]).
* `{{G1934}}` **epizētéō** (to seek after): This term is used to describe what the Gentiles or nations "**seek after**," which is contrasted with the believer's trust in the Father's knowledge of their needs ([[Matthew 6:32]]; [[Luke 12:30]]). It implies a craving or demanding search.
* `{{G3936}}` **parístēmi** (to stand beside, aid): This word shows the practical response to a stated need. The believers in Rome are commanded to "**assist**" Phoebe in whatever she has need of, highlighting the call to actively aid fellow saints [[Romans 16:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5535}}` is significant despite its infrequent use. It underscores key principles of the Christian faith.
* **Divine Awareness and Provision:** The primary use of the word emphasizes God's sovereign awareness of the needs of His children. This knowledge is presented as the foundation for a life free from anxiety about material things, setting believers apart from those who do not know God [[Matthew 6:32]].
* **Christian Interdependence:** The instruction to assist Phoebe demonstrates that meeting needs is a corporate responsibility within the church. Her work as a "**succourer**" `{{G4368}}` is met with a command for the church to "**assist**" her in turn, creating a model of mutual support [[Romans 16:2]].
* **Authenticity over Commendation:** By questioning the "need" for letters of commendation, Paul distinguishes between human systems of approval and the divine approval written on the heart. This challenges believers to focus on genuine spiritual substance rather than external validation [[2 Corinthians 3:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5535}}` is a precise term that communicates the concept of "need" or "want." While its occurrences are few, they are impactful. The word functions to reassure believers of God's fatherly awareness of their needs, to command the church to be a community of practical support, and to challenge the reliance on superficial forms of human approval. It concisely captures the tension between human want and divine provision.
TRV