δαπανάω

I spend, bear expense, waste

Definition

The verb δαπανάω primarily means 'to spend' or 'to expend,' often in a financial sense, but it can also imply a significant or total consumption of resources. In a positive sense, it describes bearing expense for a purpose, as in Acts 21:24 where Paul is advised to pay for the expenses of others taking a vow. In a negative sense, it can mean to waste or squander, vividly illustrated in Luke 15:14 where the prodigal son 'wasted his possessions.' The word also extends metaphorically to spending one's life or self, as in 2 Corinthians 12:15 where Paul speaks of spending and being spent for the sake of others.

Biblical Usage

Used five times in the New Testament, δαπανάω appears in narratives and epistles to describe financial expenditure, loss, and personal sacrifice. In Mark 5:26, it describes the woman who 'spent all she had' on doctors. Luke 15:14 uses it for reckless waste. Acts 21:24 shows it in a ritual context of paying for vows. 2 Corinthians 12:15 employs it metaphorically for Paul's apostolic self-giving, and James 4:3 criticizes spending on selfish pleasures. The usage shifts from literal spending to a powerful metaphor for total commitment.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek noun δαπάνη (dapanē), meaning 'cost,' 'expense,' or 'consumption.' The verb form inherently carries the idea of expenditure or using something up. It is related to concepts of consumption and depletion, which is reflected in its biblical range from neutral spending to complete waste.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it bridges material and spiritual stewardship. It challenges believers to consider how they 'spend' their resources—whether wastefully like the prodigal son (Luke 15:14), selfishly as warned in James 4:3, or sacrificially for the gospel and others, exemplified by Paul's being 'spent' for the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 12:15). It enriches the biblical theme of wholehearted devotion and the cost of discipleship.

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, expenditure was closely tied to social honor and obligation. Spending on public benefactions or religious vows (as in Acts 21:24) was a recognized way to gain or maintain status. The negative connotation of 'squandering' in Luke 15:14 would have been understood as a profound social and familial disgrace, not just a personal financial misstep.

ἀναλίσκω (analiskō, G355) — emphasizes consuming or destroying; often used for literal consumption. προσαναλίσκω (prosanaliskō, G4321) — to spend in addition, implying extra or further expenditure.

Word Details

Scripture References