### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apothēsaurízō**, represented by `{{G597}}`, is defined as **to treasure away** or **lay up in store**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its specific context highly significant. The word is formed from `ἀπό` and `θησαυρίζω`, which emphasizes the idea of deliberately storing something away for future use.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{G597}}` occurs in [[1 Timothy 6:19]]. In this passage, believers are instructed in the proper use of their resources, which involves "**Laying up in store** for themselves a good foundation against the time to come." The act of "laying up in store" is presented as a spiritual investment. This action directly enables the ultimate goal mentioned in the same verse: "that they may lay hold on eternal life."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in the same verse help clarify the meaning of `{{G597}}`:
* `{{G2310}}` **themélios** (foundation): This word, defined as "something put down... a substruction," describes what is being treasured away. The act of using resources for good builds a spiritual **foundation** for the future [[1 Timothy 6:19]]. Christ himself is elsewhere called the **foundation** [[1 Corinthians 3:11]].
* `{{G1438}}` **heautoû** (him- (her-, it-, them-) self (selves), etc.): This reflexive pronoun indicates that the act of treasuring away is for the benefit of "themselves" [[1 Timothy 6:19]]. This highlights a personal responsibility in spiritual preparation, which is also seen in the instruction to "work out your **own** salvation" [[Philippians 2:12]].
* `{{G1949}}` **epilambánomai** (to seize... lay hold on): This verb reveals the purpose of building the foundation. Believers are to lay up treasure so they may "**lay hold on** eternal life" [[1 Timothy 6:19]]. The same term is used just verses earlier when Timothy is commanded to "fight the good fight of faith, **lay hold on** eternal life" [[1 Timothy 6:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G597}}` is centered on the principle of spiritual investment for eternal reward.
* **Spiritual Treasury:** The concept of "laying up in store" reframes generous and godly living as a wise act of building a spiritual treasury for the future, rather than as a present loss [[1 Timothy 6:19]].
* **Foundation for Eternity:** The treasure being stored is a "good **foundation**" `{{G2310}}`. This directly links a believer's present faithfulness to their future security and the ultimate goal of taking firm hold of eternal life.
* **Active Participation:** The use of `{{G597}}` in its context encourages believers to actively and purposefully prepare for the future. The action of "laying up in store for **themselves**" `{{G1438}}` shows that believers have an active role in building upon the foundation of their faith for the life to come.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G597}}` is a concise yet powerful term that encapsulates the connection between present conduct and eternal destiny. Though used only once, it is a cornerstone for understanding Christian stewardship. It illustrates how a single word can define a profound theological concept, linking the act of **laying up in store** with the establishment of a firm **foundation** `{{G2310}}` that enables a believer to **lay hold on** `{{G1949}}` the promise of eternal life.
TRV