κλῆρος

a lot, portion

Definition

The Greek word κλῆρος (klēros) primarily means 'a lot' or 'a portion.' In its most literal sense, it refers to the small objects, like stones or pieces of wood, used for casting lots to make a decision or divide property, as seen in the soldiers casting lots for Jesus' garments (Matthew 27:35, Mark 15:24, Luke 23:34, John 19:24). By extension, it signifies the 'portion' or 'share' that is allotted to someone, whether an inheritance of land or a spiritual allotment. In the New Testament, this developed into a specialized meaning for the 'portion' of God's people assigned to a leader's care, effectively meaning a 'congregation' (Acts 1:17, 25).

Biblical Usage

κλῆρος is used 11 times in the New Testament. Its usage spans the literal act of casting lots in the Gospels' crucifixion narratives. In Acts, it shifts to a metaphorical sense, describing the apostolic ministry or 'share' that Judas lost (Acts 1:17, 25) and later, the lot cast to choose Matthias as an apostle (Acts 1:26). The word is also used in Acts 8:21, where Simon the sorcerer is told he has no 'share' (portion) in the apostolic ministry. It does not appear in the epistles, and its usage is concentrated in historical narrative contexts.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek verb κλάω (klaō), meaning 'to break,' its root idea is of something broken off or apportioned. It originally referred to a pebble or piece of pottery used in drawing lots. From this concrete object, the meaning expanded to the 'lot' cast, the resulting 'allotment' or 'portion' of land or inheritance, and finally to a group of people allotted to someone's care.

Semantic Range

κλῆρος is theologically significant as it connects the concept of divine appointment and inheritance within the people of God. The casting of lots in Acts 1:26 reflects the early church's practice of seeking God's direct will in leadership selection. More profoundly, when used for a 'portion' of God's people (Acts 1:17, 25), it lays a foundation for understanding pastoral responsibility and the church as God's allotted inheritance. This enriches the reading of 1 Peter 5:3, where elders are to care for 'the flock of God that is among you,' echoing the κλῆρος concept.

In the ancient Greco-Roman and Jewish world, casting lots (κληροῦν) was a common, culturally accepted method for making impartial decisions believed to be guided by divine providence or fate. It was used to divide land, assign duties, or determine God's will, as with the Urim and Thummim. This practice is very different from modern decision-making, making the biblical accounts of lots (e.g., for Jesus' garments, choosing Matthias) culturally specific actions that signified leaving the outcome to God.

μερίς (meris, G3310) — also means 'part' or 'portion,' but often emphasizes a division or share in something abstract (e.g., a share in an inheritance), with less connection to the physical act of casting lots. κληρονομία (klēronomia, G2817) — means 'inheritance' or 'possession,' focusing on what is received as an allotted portion, often used for the promised land or spiritual blessings.

Word Details

Scripture References