### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **chōríon**, represented by `{{G5564}}`, is defined as a spot or plot of ground. It can be translated as **field**, **land**, **parcel of ground**, **place**, or **possession**. It appears 10 times across 9 unique verses in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5564}}` is used to denote specific locations and property. It identifies the **place** called Gethsemane where Jesus went to pray with his disciples ([[Matthew 26:36]]; [[Mark 14:32]]). The word also describes plots of land as property, such as the **parcel of ground** Jacob gave to Joseph [[John 4:5]] and the **possessions** of Publius on an island [[Acts 28:7]]. It is central to the narrative of the early church, where believers sold their **lands** [[Acts 4:34]], and in the account of Ananias, who lied about the **price** of the **land** he sold [[Acts 5:3]]. Notably, it is used for the **field** Judas purchased, which became known as Aceldama, "The **field** of blood" ([[Acts 1:18]]; [[Acts 1:19]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of land and ownership:
* `{{G2935}}` **ktḗtōr** (possessor): Defined as "an owner," this word is used in conjunction with `{{G5564}}` to describe the members of the early church who were **possessors** of lands [[Acts 4:34]].
* `{{G3614}}` **oikía** (house): This term for a "residence" or "abode" often appears in parallel with land ownership. In the early church, believers sold not only their lands but also their **houses** to support the community [[Acts 4:34]].
* `{{G4097}}` **pipráskō** (sell): Meaning "to dispose of as merchandise," this action verb is directly connected to `{{G5564}}` in accounts where land is sold, such as when early believers **sold** their possessions [[Acts 4:34]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{G5564}}` is demonstrated in its various contexts.
* **Stewardship and Radical Generosity:** The use of `{{G5564}}` in the book of Acts frames land ownership within the context of the early Christian community. The selling of **lands** and **possessions** by believers highlights a theological principle of prioritizing the community's needs over personal wealth [[Acts 4:34]].
* **Integrity in Material Dealings:** The account of Ananias and Sapphira ties a physical plot of **land** to a test of spiritual honesty. Lying about the proceeds from selling the **land** was considered a direct offense against the Holy Ghost, demonstrating that one's handling of possessions is a matter of spiritual importance [[Acts 5:3]].
* **Land as a Marker of Spiritual History:** Specific plots of ground, or **chōríon**, serve as backdrops for pivotal moments in redemptive history. This includes Gethsemane, the **place** of Christ's agonizing prayer [[Matthew 26:36]], and the **parcel of ground** tied to the patriarchal lineage of Jacob and Joseph [[John 4:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5564}}` is more than just a word for a piece of property. While it literally refers to a **field**, **place**, or **parcel of ground**, its biblical usage imbues it with significant weight. It serves as a backdrop for critical moments of prayer, betrayal, and covenant history, and it is central to the New Testament's teachings on communal generosity and spiritual integrity in the handling of material possessions.
TRV