λογία

a collection, collecting

Definition

Λογία refers to a collection or gathering, specifically a collection of money. In the New Testament, it is used exclusively for financial contributions gathered for religious purposes, particularly for the support of fellow believers. The term appears in 1 Corinthians 16:1-2, where Paul instructs the Corinthian church to set aside money 'on the first day of every week' as a systematic collection for the saints in Jerusalem. This indicates it was a voluntary, yet regular, gathering of funds rather than a spontaneous or mandatory tax.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the New Testament, both in 1 Corinthians 16:1 and 16:2. In these verses, Paul provides practical instructions for the Corinthians regarding a financial collection for the struggling believers in Jerusalem. The usage shows a pattern of organized, periodic giving (weekly) by individuals within the local church context, intended for trans-local charitable relief.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek verb λέγω (legō, G3004), which means 'to gather, collect, or count.' The noun λογία thus literally means 'a gathering' or 'collection.' It is related to other words about gathering or speaking (like λόγος, logos), but in this financial context, the sense of 'collecting' is primary.

Semantic Range

This word highlights the early church's theology of practical generosity and mutual care across geographical and ethnic boundaries. The 'collection' (λογία) was a tangible expression of Christian unity and love, fulfilling the law of Christ by bearing one another's burdens (Galatians 6:2). Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by emphasizing that giving was not an afterthought but a deliberate, worshipful act integrated into the rhythm of the Christian community.

In the Greco-Roman world, voluntary associations often collected dues for member benefits and communal meals. Paul's use of λογία adapts this familiar practice but redirects it toward selfless, charitable aid for distant brothers and sisters in Christ, which was a distinctive mark of Christian community. Unlike modern, impersonal charity drives, this was a personal, church-based relief effort for a specific group of people known to the givers.

δόμα (dōma, G1390) — a gift or present, more general and not necessarily a collected sum. δωρεά (dōrea, G1431) — a free gift or bounty, often with a focus on the gracious nature of the giving. προσφορά (prosphora, G4376) — an offering or sacrifice, often with a stronger cultic or worship connotation.

Word Details

Scripture References