### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apeleútheros**, represented by `{{G558}}`, defines **one freed away, i.e. a freedman**. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The term specifically denotes a person who has been liberated from a state of servitude, a former slave who is now free.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical use of `{{G558}}` is found in [[1 Corinthians 7:22]], where it establishes a key spiritual principle. The verse states that a believer who is a **servant** `{{G1401}}` in earthly terms **is** the **Lord's** **freeman**. This creates a powerful contrast, showing that one's calling **in** the **Lord** `{{G2962}}` redefines their identity. The passage continues this parallel by stating that a person who is socially **free** `{{G1658}}` becomes **Christ's** **servant** `{{G1401}}` when **called** `{{G2564}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the same verse illuminate the meaning of **freeman**:
* `{{G1401}}` **doûlos** (a slave... servant): This is the direct social and spiritual opposite of a **freeman**. The verse contrasts being a **servant** in the world with being a **freeman** in the Lord, and vice versa [[1 Corinthians 7:22]].
* `{{G1658}}` **eleútheros** (not a slave... free): As the root word for **freeman**, this term describes a state of liberty. In context, it is used for someone who is already socially **free** but becomes a servant of Christ, highlighting a different kind of servitude [[1 Corinthians 7:22]].
* `{{G2962}}` **kýrios** (supreme in authority... Master): This word identifies the one who grants freedom. A believer is the **Lord's** **freeman**, indicating that liberation comes from a higher authority and results in a new relationship with that **Master** [[1 Corinthians 7:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G558}}` is concentrated in its single appearance, establishing a profound spiritual reality:
* **Redefined Identity:** The word demonstrates that a believer's primary identity is spiritual, not social. A person's status as a **servant** `{{G1401}}` or **free** `{{G1658}}` person on earth is secondary to their status as a **freeman** or servant **in** the **Lord** `{{G2962}}` [[1 Corinthians 7:22]].
* **Freedom from Bondage:** As a "freedman," the believer is understood to have been liberated from a previous state of bondage. This points to the freedom granted by **Christ** `{{G5547}}` from a state of spiritual slavery.
* **Liberty as New Servitude:** The passage presents a paradox where being the Lord's **freeman** is paired with the idea that a free person becomes **Christ's** **servant** `{{G1401}}`. This suggests that true spiritual freedom is not an absence of allegiance but a willing submission to the lordship of Christ [[1 Corinthians 7:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G558}}` is a precise and significant term despite its rare use. It encapsulates the Christian concept that spiritual identity in **Christ** `{{G5547}}` transcends worldly status. The word **freeman** illustrates that a believer is liberated by the **Lord** `{{G2962}}` from bondage into a new reality, one where true freedom is found in willing service to Him.
TRV