μίσθωμα

a rented house

Definition

μίσθωμα refers specifically to a rented or hired dwelling, a place of residence obtained through payment. In its sole New Testament occurrence in Acts 28:30, it describes the lodging Paul secured at his own expense for two years in Rome while under house arrest. The word emphasizes the temporary, contractual nature of the accommodation, distinct from a permanent home. While its core meaning is straightforward, the context implies a functional space from which Paul could receive visitors and continue his ministry.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Acts 28:30, where it describes the apostle Paul's living situation during his two-year Roman imprisonment: 'He lived there two whole years at his own expense, and welcomed all who came to him.' The usage highlights the practical, secular arrangement of his custody, contrasting with the spiritual work he performed from that location. It appears in a historical narrative context, detailing the conditions of his ministry.

Etymology

Derived from the verb μισθόω (misthoō), meaning 'to hire' or 'to let out for hire,' which itself comes from the noun μισθός (misthos), meaning 'wages' or 'reward.' The suffix -μα (-ma) typically indicates the result of an action. Thus, μίσθωμα literally means 'that which is hired' or 'the result of hiring,' concretely applied to a rented dwelling.

Semantic Range

While the word itself is mundane, its single biblical context in Acts 28:30 is theologically significant. Paul's rented house became a center for unimpeded gospel proclamation (Acts 28:31), demonstrating God's providence in using secular, temporary arrangements to advance His kingdom. It illustrates how God provides for and works through His servants even in confinement, turning a paid dwelling into a platform for ministry.

In the Roman world, renting housing, especially in a major city like Rome, was a common practice for travelers, soldiers, and those without permanent property. Paul's ability to rent his own lodging while under guard suggests a degree of privilege within the Roman legal system (likely custodia libera, or 'free custody'), allowing him some personal autonomy and the means to pay for it, possibly through his tentmaking trade or support from churches.

οἰκία (oikia, G3614) — a general term for a house or household, not specifying rental status. μονή (monē, G3438) — an abiding place, dwelling, or room, often with a sense of permanence or hospitality (John 14:2).

Word Details

Scripture References