### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **chrḗsimos**, represented by `{{G5539}}`, serves as a term for what is **serviceable** or for **profit**. It appears **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, and its meaning is established by its use in a specific pastoral warning against pointless debate.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{G5539}}` is used to highlight the negative outcome of contentious arguments. Paul instructs Timothy to charge believers "before the Lord that they strive not about words to no **profit**, but to the subverting of the hearers" [[2 Timothy 2:14]]. The word is used here to define what these verbal disputes lack—any beneficial or serviceable result—and to contrast it with the harmful consequence of causing demolition among listeners.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help clarify the danger of unprofitable communication:
* `{{G3054}}` **logomachéō** (strive about words): This term, defined as "to be disputatious (on trifles)," describes the specific action that results in a lack of `{{G5539}}` [[2 Timothy 2:14]].
* `{{G2692}}` **katastrophḗ** (subverting): This word describes the destructive result of such disputes. Defined as "an overturn ('catastrophe'), i.e. demolition," it is presented as the opposite of profit [[2 Timothy 2:14]].
* `{{G191}}` **akoúō** (hear): This verb identifies those who are negatively impacted. The "hearers" are the ones who suffer the subverting caused by unprofitable speech [[2 Timothy 2:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5539}}` is found in the principles it underscores by its absence.
* **The Danger of Unprofitable Speech:** The warning against striving about words for "no **profit**" `{{G5539}}` establishes a standard for Christian communication, which should avoid causing "the subverting of the hearers" `{{G2692}}` as noted in [[2 Timothy 2:14]].
* **Accountability for Words:** The charge to avoid unprofitable talk is given "before the Lord" (`{{G1799}}`, `{{G2962}}`), elevating the matter to one of spiritual seriousness and accountability to a supreme authority.
* **Protecting the Hearers:** The central concern is the spiritual well-being of the listeners. The damage caused by pointless debates stands in direct opposition to the goal of edifying speech, which is to "minister grace unto the hearers" [[Ephesians 4:29]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5539}}` is a powerful concept defined by its negative use. While meaning **serviceable** or **profit**, its single appearance in [[2 Timothy 2:14]] serves as a stark warning about the vanity of arguments that lack spiritual benefit. It highlights a critical biblical principle: our words are not neutral but have the power to either build up or lead to demolition, and we are accountable to God for their impact.
TRV