### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **arrhabṓn**, represented by `{{G728}}`, is defined as **a pledge, i.e. part of the purchase-money or property given in advance as security for the rest:--earnest**. Of Hebrew origin, this term appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. It conveys the concept of a down payment or a guarantee that secures a future fulfillment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G728}}` is exclusively used to describe a spiritual reality. The Spirit itself is identified as the **earnest** that God has **given** to believers [[2 Corinthians 5:5]]. This pledge is placed "in our **hearts**" [[2 Corinthians 1:22]], serving as a tangible, internal assurance. Furthermore, this **earnest** is described as the guarantee "of our **inheritance** until the redemption of the purchased possession" [[Ephesians 1:14]], linking the present gift of the Spirit to a future, complete salvation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the function and context of the **earnest**:
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (a spirit): This word identifies what the earnest is. It is not an object, but the "earnest of the **Spirit**" that God has given to believers [[2 Corinthians 5:5]].
* `{{G2817}}` **klēronomía** (a patrimony or a possession): This defines what the earnest secures. It is the "earnest of our **inheritance**," guaranteeing what is to come [[Ephesians 1:14]].
* `{{G4972}}` **sphragízō** (to stamp with a signet or private mark for security or preservation): This action is directly associated with receiving the earnest. Believers are first **sealed**, and then given the **earnest** of the Spirit in their hearts [[2 Corinthians 1:22]].
* `{{G1325}}` **dídōmi** (to give): This action explains how the earnest is received. In each context, the earnest of the Spirit is something that has been **given** by God to believers [[2 Corinthians 1:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G728}}` is significant, establishing a foundation for Christian assurance.
* **A Divine Guarantee:** The earnest is a promise from God Himself. God is the one who has "wrought us for the selfsame thing" and **given** us the **earnest** of the Spirit [[2 Corinthians 5:5]].
* **The Promise of Redemption:** The presence of the **earnest** guarantees a future event: the full "**redemption** of the purchased possession" [[Ephesians 1:14]]. It is a down payment on the ultimate salvation of the believer.
* **The Indwelling Spirit:** The pledge is not an external token but the internal presence of the **Spirit** `{{G4151}}` within believers' **hearts** `{{G2588}}`, serving as a constant seal and assurance [[2 Corinthians 1:22]]. This reality is given "unto the praise of his glory" [[Ephesians 1:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G728}}` **arrhabṓn** is a crucial theological term representing far more than a simple pledge. It defines the Holy Spirit's presence in a believer's life as a divine down payment. This **earnest** acts as both a seal of present ownership by God and an unbreakable guarantee of a future, full inheritance and redemption. It is a cornerstone concept for understanding the security and assurance of salvation.
TRV