### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **chrēsteúomai**, represented by `{{G5541}}`, is defined as to **show oneself useful, i.e. act benevolently** or simply **to be kind**. This specific term is notably rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, which underscores its precise and significant application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G5541}}` is in [[1 Corinthians 13:4]], where it is used to define a key characteristic of charity, or love. The verse states, "Charity suffereth long, and **is kind**." In this pivotal passage, being kind is not presented as a passive state but as an active expression of love. It is an outward action, a demonstration of benevolence that flows from the nature of charity itself.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{G5541}}` is illuminated by the words surrounding it in its only context:
* `{{G26}}` **agápē** (love, i.e. affection or benevolence): This is the subject that **is kind** `{{G5541}}`. Kindness is presented as a primary action of this specific form of love [[1 Corinthians 13:4]].
* `{{G3114}}` **makrothyméō** (to be long-spirited, i.e. (objectively) forbearing or (subjectively) patient): This word is directly paired with `{{G5541}}`, as charity "suffereth long, and is kind," suggesting that kindness is the benevolent action that accompanies patience [[1 Corinthians 13:4]].
* `{{G4068}}` **perpereúomai** (to boast): This is used in the negative to show what charity is not. In contrast to the positive action of being kind, charity "vaunteth not itself," highlighting kindness as an act of humility [[1 Corinthians 13:4]].
* `{{G5448}}` **physióō** (to inflate, i.e. (figuratively) make proud (haughty)): Immediately following the description of kindness and the absence of boasting, charity "is not puffed up," further contrasting the benevolent action of `{{G5541}}` with arrogance [[1 Corinthians 13:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5541}}` is concentrated in its role as a defining attribute of divine love.
* **Active Benevolence:** The term establishes that biblical love `{{G26}}` is not merely an emotion but involves a deliberate choice to **act benevolently** and show oneself useful to others [[1 Corinthians 13:4]].
* **Expression of Patience:** Its placement next to "suffereth long" `{{G3114}}` indicates that kindness is the constructive response to situations that require forbearance. It is patience in action.
* **Antithesis to Pride:** Kindness is set in direct opposition to self-aggrandizing behaviors like envy `{{G2206}}`, boasting `{{G4068}}`, and being "puffed up" `{{G5448}}`, framing it as an expression of selfless humility [[1 Corinthians 13:4]].
### Summary
In summary, while appearing only once, `{{G5541}}` **chrēsteúomai** provides a crucial definition of a core component of Christian character. It is not just an attitude but a tangible action. Contextualized within [[1 Corinthians 13:4]], it is revealed as the benevolent and useful expression of love, intrinsically linked to patience and standing in stark contrast to pride, envy, and arrogance. It demonstrates how a single, rare word can vividly capture an essential element of biblical ethics.
TRV