### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apódēmos**, represented by `{{G590}}`, describes one who is **absent from one's own people** or a **foreign traveller**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, specifically in the context of someone **taking a far journey**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{G590}}` is used to illustrate a parable about the Son of man. He is compared to a **man** `{{G444}}` **taking a far journey** [[Mark 13:34]]. Before leaving, this man organizes his household by giving **authority** `{{G1849}}` to his **servants** `{{G1401}}`, assigning each their specific **work** `{{G2041}}`, and commanding the **porter** `{{G2377}}` to **watch** `{{G1127}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context clarify the responsibilities left behind by the one **taking a far journey**:
* `{{G1401}}` **doûlos** (servant): This refers to a **slave** or servant in a state of subjection. In the parable, these are the individuals to whom the master entrusts his **house** `{{G3614}}` and **work** `{{G2041}}` [[Mark 13:34]].
* `{{G1849}}` **exousía** (authority): This word signifies **delegated influence** or power. It is what the master **gave** `{{G1325}}` to his servants, enabling them to manage his affairs in his absence [[Mark 13:34]]. This same word is used to describe the **power** given to Jesus in heaven and earth [[Matthew 28:18]].
* `{{G1127}}` **grēgoreúō** (watch): Meaning **to keep awake** or be vigilant, this is the specific command the master **commanded** `{{G1781}}` the **porter** `{{G2377}}` to do [[Mark 13:34]]. This call to spiritual alertness is a frequent instruction in scripture [[1 Peter 5:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G590}}` comes from the parable it introduces.
* **Delegated Stewardship:** The man **taking a far journey** entrusts his entire **house** `{{G3614}}` to his **servants** `{{G1401}}`. By giving them **authority** `{{G1849}}` and specific **work** `{{G2041}}`, he establishes a model of stewardship where believers are responsible for carrying out God's will on earth [[Ephesians 2:10]].
* **Constant Vigilance:** The explicit command to **watch** `{{G1127}}` is the primary duty in the master's absence. This theme of being watchful and spiritually awake is critical, as believers are called to be vigilant against adversaries [[1 Peter 5:8]] and to be ready for the Lord's coming [[Revelation 3:3]].
* **Future Accountability:** The departure sets an expectation of return. The parable implies that the servants' faithfulness with their assigned **work** `{{G2041}}` will be assessed. Scripture confirms this, stating that each person will be given a reward according as his **work** shall be [[Revelation 22:12]].
### Summary
In summary, while **apódēmos** `{{G590}}` appears only once, its use is foundational to a key parable about the Christian life. The concept of one **taking a far journey** establishes the framework for understanding the responsibilities of believers in the time between Christ's ascension and his return. It is a powerful illustration of delegated authority, the necessity of faithful work, and the command for constant, spiritual watchfulness.
TRV