### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ōnéomai**, represented by `{{G5608}}`, means to **purchase** or **buy**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making it a highly specific term used to describe a singular, significant transaction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G5608}}` occurs in Stephen's historical address in the book of Acts. While recounting the history of the patriarchs, he states that after they were brought to Sychem, they were laid "in the sepulchre that Abraham **bought** for a sum of money of the sons of Emmor" [[Acts 7:16]]. The word here emphasizes a formal and legitimate commercial exchange, a key detail in the establishment of the patriarchs' first holding in the promised land.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from this passage illuminate the context of this purchase:
* `{{G11}}` **Abraám** (Abraham, the Hebrew patriarch): The individual who performs the action of purchasing. As a patriarch who received God's promises, his act of buying land is significant [[Hebrews 11:8]].
* `{{G3418}}` **mnēma** (a memorial, i.e. sepulchral monument): This term identifies the object of the purchase, a **sepulchre**, which served as a permanent family burial place [[Acts 7:16]].
* `{{G5092}}` **timḗ** (a value, i.e. money paid... price): This specifies the method of the transaction, referring to the "sum" or **price** that Abraham paid to acquire the tomb.
* `{{G694}}` **argýrion** (money, (piece of) silver): This word further clarifies the "sum" paid as being **money**, highlighting the tangible nature of the purchase [[Acts 7:16]].
### Theological Significance
Though it appears only once, the theological weight of `{{G5608}}` is tied to its context within Abraham's story.
* **Faith in the Promise:** Abraham's purchase of a burial plot was an act of faith. By **buying** a piece of the land, he was physically laying claim to the future inheritance God had promised to him and his seed [[Galatians 3:29]].
* **Legal Claim:** The use of a word for a formal purchase underscores that this was not a conquest or a gift, but a legitimate transaction. It established a legal and permanent presence for Abraham's descendants in the land.
* **Seed of Inheritance:** The acquisition of a tomb, a place of death, paradoxically becomes a symbol of promised life and future possession for the nation that would descend from **Abraám** [[Matthew 1:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5608}}` is a precise term that, in its single biblical appearance, captures a pivotal moment. It moves beyond a simple definition of "to **buy**" to signify an act of faith, a legal claim, and the first tangible step toward the fulfillment of God's covenant promises to Abraham. The word marks the moment the patriarch secured the first piece of the inheritance for his descendants.
TRV