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."
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.
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.
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.
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