οὐκουρός

a housekeeper

Definition

οὐκουρός refers specifically to a woman who manages a household, a 'keeper-at-home' or 'housekeeper.' In its sole New Testament occurrence in Titus 2:5, it describes a quality young women are to be taught: to be 'workers at home' (NASB) or 'busy at home' (NIV), managing domestic affairs. The term implies active, diligent oversight of the home and its duties, not merely passive residence. It carries a sense of responsibility, order, and care for the domestic sphere as a primary focus.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Titus 2:5. It appears within a list of instructions from the apostle Paul to Titus regarding what older women should teach younger women. The context is ethical instruction for Christian living within the Cretan community, emphasizing virtues that would uphold the credibility of the gospel message. The term is paired with being 'kind' and 'submissive to their own husbands,' placing domestic management within a broader framework of godly character.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words οἶκος (oikos, G3624), meaning 'house' or 'household,' and οὖρος (ouros), meaning 'guardian,' 'watcher,' or 'keeper.' It is a compound noun literally meaning 'house-guardian' or 'house-warden.' This construction emphasizes the role of protection, oversight, and stewardship over the domestic domain.

Semantic Range

While describing a practical domestic role, this word connects to the theological theme of orderly stewardship and godly living within social structures (oikos). In Titus 2:5, it is part of a pattern of instruction meant to 'adorn the doctrine of God our Savior' (Titus 2:10), showing that faithful management of one's assigned sphere of life bears witness to the gospel. It highlights the value and dignity of domestic work as a form of service that contributes to the health of the church and family, which is a microcosm of God's household (1 Timothy 3:15).

In the first-century Greco-Roman world, the management of a household (oikonomia) was a respected and vital role for women, central to the family's economic and social stability. The 'keeper-at-home' was responsible for overseeing servants, finances, food, clothing, and the upbringing of children. This stood in contrast to being idle or being a busybody in others' affairs. Paul's instruction aligns with a positive cultural ideal of a competent, industrious homemaker, while Christianizing its motive as service to God.

οἰκονόμος (oikonomos, G3623) — a manager or steward, a broader term for household administration that could apply to both men and women. οἰκοδεσπότης (oikodespotēs, G3617) — master of the house, head of the household, typically male.

Word Details

Scripture References