### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **chronotribéō**, represented by `{{G5551}}`, is defined as being a "time-wearer" or to procrastinate and linger. Its components are presumed to be from χρόνος (time) and the base of τρίβος (wear). It appears only **1 times** in **1 unique verses** in the Bible, signifying a very specific application of the concept of how time is spent.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G5551}}` is found in the narrative of Paul's missionary travels. In [[Acts 20:16]], it is recorded that Paul **had determined** `{{G2919}}` to bypass Ephesus. The reason given is that **he** `{{G846}}` would **not** `{{G3361}}` **spend the time** `{{G5551}}` in **Asia** `{{G773}}`. His decision to avoid lingering was driven by a clear objective: he **hasted** `{{G4692}}` in his journey, hoping to arrive in **Jerusalem** `{{G2414}}` for the **day** `{{G2250}}` of **Pentecost** `{{G4005}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its sole context help clarify its meaning and Paul's motivation:
* `{{G4692}}` **speúdō** (to "speed" ("study"), i.e. urge on (diligently or earnestly)): This is the direct reason Paul chose not to **spend time** `{{G5551}}`; he was hasting toward a specific goal.
* `{{G2919}}` **krínō** (properly, to distinguish, i.e. decide): This word shows that Paul's avoidance of spending time was not a passive occurrence but an active and deliberate decision.
* `{{G1415}}` **dynatós** (powerful or capable (literally or figuratively); neuter possible): This qualifies Paul's haste, noting that his arrival in Jerusalem was dependent on it being **possible**, adding a layer of realism to his urgent planning.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G5551}}` is derived entirely from its singular, practical application in Paul's ministry.
* **Purposeful Urgency:** The decision not to **spend time** `{{G5551}}` was directly tied to a spiritual priority, which was reaching **Jerusalem** `{{G2414}}` for **Pentecost** `{{G4005}}`. This illustrates the principle of stewarding time for kingdom purposes.
* **Strategic Sacrifice:** Paul deliberately chose to **sail by** `{{G3896}}` **Ephesus** `{{G2181}}`, a significant city for his ministry, demonstrating that even good things may be set aside for a more pressing, time-sensitive objective.
* **Active Avoidance of Delay:** The word is used negatively—to **not** spend the time—highlighting an intentional act of avoiding procrastination or lingering to ensure a more important goal could be met.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5551}}` provides a focused lesson on the management of time in service to a higher calling. While appearing only once, its context in [[Acts 20:16]] vividly portrays the Apostle Paul making a calculated decision to avoid delay. It shows that being a "time-wearer" is something to be consciously avoided when pressing spiritual objectives, like arriving for Pentecost in Jerusalem, are at stake.
TRV