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πραγματεύομαι (pragmateuomai)

pragmateuomai

to trade

G4231 · Greek · New Testament · 1 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The verb pragmateuomai describes the active engagement in business or trade. Derived from pragma, meaning "matter" or "affair," it conveys the sense of being occupied with practical affairs rather than idle speculation. In the New Testament, it specifically refers to conducting commercial transactions, such as managing money or buying and selling goods.

This word appears only once in the Gospels, in Luke 19:13. Jesus uses it when sending his servants to conduct business until he returns, illustrating a period of active stewardship. The term emphasizes diligent work and responsibility in one's calling, portraying faithfulness as a tangible, ongoing activity rather than a passive state.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word pragmateuomai invites us to see our daily work as a form of faithful stewardship. In Luke 19:13, Jesus instructs his servants to conduct business until he returns. This simple command transforms ordinary tasks into acts of obedience and trust. It reminds us that God cares about how we manage the resources and opportunities placed in our hands.

Living out this calling does not require grand gestures or public recognition. Instead, it asks for steady, reliable engagement with the practical affairs of life. Whether you are managing a budget, caring for a home, or serving in your community, your faithful effort matters to God. He sees your diligence and values your commitment to doing well what is before you.

Let this truth encourage you today. Your work is not separate from your faith but is a natural expression of it. As you go about your day, remember that you are serving the King who will one day return. May you find peace in knowing that your faithful labor is seen and valued by Him.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • Do trade1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • πραγματεύσασθε1×

Key Verses

  • Luke 19:13
    He called ten servants of his and gave them ten mina coins, and told them, ‘Conduct business until I come.’

    This verse uniquely uses pragmateuomai to command active, ongoing stewardship of resources while awaiting the master's return.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does pragmateuomai mean in the Bible?

The Greek word pragmateuomai means to trade, do business, or engage in commercial activity. It comes from the root pragma, meaning 'matter' or 'affair.' In the New Testament, it specifically describes the active management of resources or conducting transactions.

Where does this word appear in Scripture?

This verb appears only once in the New Testament, in Luke 19:13. Jesus uses it when telling his servants to conduct business until he returns from a journey.

How is this word different from general work terms?

While general words for work might imply labor or effort, pragmateuomai specifically highlights the commercial or managerial aspect of stewardship. It suggests active engagement in practical affairs rather than passive waiting.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Luke 1 verse
Luke 19:13

He called ten servants of his and gave them ten mina coins, and told them, ‘Conduct business until I come.’