### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **achreîos**, represented by `{{G888}}`, means **useless** or, euphemistically, **unmeritorious**. The base definition describes it as **unprofitable**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, highlighting specific contexts related to service and accountability.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G888}}` is used in two distinct contexts. In one instance, it describes a servant's humble position before a master. After completing all that was **commanded** `{{G1299}}` of them, they are to **say** `{{G3004}}`, "We are **unprofitable** servants," acknowledging they have only done their **duty** `{{G3784}}` [[Luke 17:10]]. In a contrasting use, the term denotes condemnation. An "**unprofitable** servant" is **cast** `{{G1544}}` **into** `{{G1519}}` **outer** `{{G1857}}` **darkness** `{{G4655}}`, a place of **weeping** `{{G2805}}` and **gnashing** `{{G1030}}` of **teeth** `{{G3599}}` [[Matthew 25:30]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of **achreîos**:
* `{{G1401}}` **doûlos** (servant): Defined as a **slave** or **servant**, this word appears alongside `{{G888}}` in both of its occurrences, referring to both the humble servant [[Luke 17:10]] and the condemned one [[Matthew 25:30]].
* `{{G3784}}` **opheílō** (duty): This word means to **owe** or to be under obligation. It clarifies the status of the servants in Luke, who state they have only done that which was their **duty** to do [[Luke 17:10]].
* `{{G1544}}` **ekbállō** (cast out): Meaning **to eject**, this verb describes the severe consequence for the **unprofitable** servant, who is **cast** out into darkness [[Matthew 25:30]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G888}}` is seen in its dual application:
* **The Nature of Service and Duty:** The use of `{{G888}}` in [[Luke 17:10]] teaches a lesson in humility. A **servant** `{{G1401}}` who does everything **commanded** `{{G1299}}` has simply fulfilled an obligation (**duty** `{{G3784}}`) and has not earned extra merit. Their status remains that of an **unprofitable** servant in relation to their master.
* **Consequences of Uselessness:** In contrast, [[Matthew 25:30]] links being **unprofitable** `{{G888}}` to severe consequences. The servant who fails to be productive is not merely unmeritorious but is judged and **cast** `{{G1544}}` into **outer** `{{G1857}}` **darkness** `{{G4655}}`, demonstrating a divine expectation of fruitfulness.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G888}}` **achreîos** is a potent and rare term, used only twice to convey being **unprofitable**. It presents a sharp dichotomy. On one hand, it is the proper self-assessment of a faithful **servant** `{{G1401}}` who has only done their duty [[Luke 17:10]]. On the other hand, it is the final verdict on a servant who fails their master, resulting in judgment [[Matthew 25:30]]. The word thus serves as a powerful reminder of both the humility required in service and the serious accountability for one's stewardship.
TRV