ἐργάζομαι

I word, trade, do

Definition

The verb ἐργάζομαι fundamentally means 'to work' or 'to do,' but its meaning varies by context. It can refer to general labor or activity (John 5:17), performing deeds (whether good as in John 3:21 or evil as in Matthew 7:23), and engaging in a trade or occupation (Matthew 25:16). It also carries the sense of 'to accomplish' or 'to bring about' a result through effort, and in some contexts, it means 'to earn' or 'acquire by working' (as in the parable of the talents).

Biblical Usage

ἐργάζομαι is used 37 times across the Gospels, Acts, and Epistles, often describing human action or divine work. In the Gospels, it frequently describes doing deeds or works, whether on the Sabbath (Luke 13:14) or in parables about labor (Matthew 21:28). In John, it contrasts human works with God's work (John 5:17; 6:28). Paul uses it for ethical instruction about working with one's hands (Ephesians 4:28) and for 'working out' salvation (Philippians 2:12).

Etymology

Derived from the noun ἔργον (ergon, G2041) meaning 'work' or 'deed.' It is a verbal form that means 'to be engaged in work.' The root is ancient Greek, connected to the concept of activity, labor, or task. Cognates in English include 'energy' and 'ergonomics,' all relating to work or activity.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it connects human activity to divine evaluation. It underscores that both good and evil deeds are 'works' observed by God (John 3:21, Matthew 7:23). It highlights the concept of cooperation in sanctification, as in 'working out' salvation (Philippians 2:12), implying sustained effort under God's grace. Jesus' statement in John 5:17, 'My Father is working until now, and I am working,' uses this verb to assert His divine activity and unity with the Father.

In the first-century Greco-Roman world, work was often manual labor or trade, viewed with mixed esteem—necessary but sometimes looked down upon by elites. The Jewish context highly valued work, but with strict Sabbath prohibitions (Luke 13:14). The term could encompass everything from farming to business, reflecting a broad view of productive activity.

ποιέω (poieō, G4160) — a more general 'to do' or 'make,' often interchangeable but ποιέω can be broader; πράσσω (prassō, G4238) — often 'to practice' habitually, sometimes with a negative connotation (Romans 1:32); κοπιάω (kopiaō, G2872) — 'to labor to the point of weariness,' emphasizing strenuous effort.

Word Details

Scripture References