μίσθιος
misthios
hired worker
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Greek word μίσθιος (misthios) refers to a hired worker. This term is primarily associated with the domain of commerce and wealth, indicating a person who receives payment for their labor. The fact that it appears only three times in the Bible suggests a limited scope of usage, but one that is significant nonetheless. In the context of commerce and wealth, μίσθιος highlights the transactional nature of labor, where individuals are compensated for their work. This concept is likely to be relevant in discussions of employment, wages, and the value of labor. The limited occurrences of this word may imply that it is used in specific situations or contexts where the hired worker is a key aspect of the narrative. The significance of μίσθιος lies in its portrayal of the relationship between labor and compensation. By using this term, the biblical authors may be highlighting the importance of fair wages, the value of hard work, or the consequences of exploiting workers. Further analysis of the specific contexts in which μίσθιος appears would be necessary to fully understand its significance.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
3 total occurrences across the text
But when he came to himself he said, ‘How many hired servants of my father’s have bread enough to spare, and I’m dying with hunger!
Luke 15:19I am no more worthy to be called your son. Make me as one of your hired servants.” ’
Luke 15:21The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’