κτῆμα

a field, property

Definition

κτῆμα refers to a possession, specifically a piece of property or an estate. In the New Testament, it most concretely denotes a piece of landed property, such as a field or a plot of land. This is seen in the story of the rich young ruler, where his many 'possessions' (κτήματα) likely included real estate (Matthew 19:22, Mark 10:22). In the plural, as used in Acts, the term broadens to mean 'possessions' or 'property' in general, which could be sold, as the early church did to support the community (Acts 2:45, 5:1).

Biblical Usage

This word is used four times in the New Testament, appearing in the Gospels and Acts. In Matthew 19:22 and Mark 10:22, it describes the many 'possessions' that prevented the rich young ruler from following Jesus. In Acts, it describes the 'possessions' or 'property' that believers sold to provide for the needs of the church (Acts 2:45) and specifically the property that Ananias and Sapphira sold (Acts 5:1). The usage shows a pattern of referring to material wealth, particularly landed property that could be liquidated.

Etymology

Derived from the verb κτάομαι (ktaomai, G2932), meaning 'to acquire' or 'to get.' Thus, κτῆμα fundamentally means 'an acquired thing' or 'a possession.' It is part of a word family related to ownership and property, including κτῆνος (ktēnos, G2934) meaning 'beast' or 'livestock' as a type of property.

Semantic Range

κτῆμα is theologically significant in passages about wealth and discipleship. In the Gospels, it represents the material attachments that can hinder wholehearted commitment to Christ (Matthew 19:22). In Acts, it illustrates the radical, voluntary generosity of the early Christian community, where possessions were shared to meet needs, reflecting a counter-cultural view of ownership. Understanding this Greek term highlights the concrete nature of the sacrifices made and the potential spiritual danger of clinging to earthly 'acquisitions.'

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, κτῆμα, especially in the singular, strongly implied landed property, which was the primary form of stable wealth and social status. Owning land was a key marker of security and identity. This contrasts with modern, more fluid concepts of wealth (stocks, digital assets). The act of selling such property in Acts was a profound relinquishment of social standing and economic security.

ὑπάρχοντα (hyparchonta, G5224) — 'belongings' or 'goods'; a broader, more general term for possessions. κτῆνος (ktēnos, G2934) — 'livestock' or 'beast'; a specific type of property or acquisition. οὐσία (ousia, G3776) — 'substance' or 'property'; denotes one's entire estate or resources.

Word Details

Scripture References