περιποίησις

obtaining, possessing, possession

Definition

Peripoiēsis fundamentally means 'the act of obtaining or acquiring something for oneself,' but in the New Testament, it carries a strong sense of 'a possession' or 'something preserved or kept safe.' It describes both the process of being acquired and the resulting state of being a treasured possession. In Ephesians 1:14 and 1 Peter 2:9, it refers to believers as God's own special possession, saved and set apart for His purposes. In other passages, like 1 Thessalonians 5:9 and Hebrews 10:39, the emphasis is on the act of obtaining or acquiring salvation, focusing on the outcome of preservation and deliverance.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exclusively in epistolary literature, emphasizing the believer's secure relationship with God. It appears in two primary contexts: first, to describe believers as God's acquired and treasured people (Ephesians 1:14, 1 Peter 2:9), and second, to describe the act of obtaining salvation as a preserved outcome (1 Thessalonians 5:9, 2 Thessalonians 2:14, Hebrews 10:39). The usage consistently conveys security, purpose, and divine ownership.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition περί (peri), meaning 'around' or 'concerning,' and the root ποιέω (poieō), meaning 'to make' or 'to do.' The compound thus literally means 'a making around' or 'a securing for oneself.' It implies an act that results in something being obtained and carefully kept. Cognates include the verb περιποιέομαι (peripoieomai, G4046), 'to acquire or preserve.'

Semantic Range

This word is theologically rich, central to the doctrine of redemption. It portrays salvation not merely as forgiveness but as God actively acquiring a people for His own possession (1 Peter 2:9). It underscores security—believers are not just saved but are God's preserved and protected treasure (Ephesians 1:14). Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting the believer's identity as God's cherished property, destined for His glory and kept secure for eternity.

In the Greco-Roman world, the term could refer to acquiring property or preserving something of value. For the New Testament authors, applying it to people would have been striking, as it elevated believers from a status of slavery or obscurity to being a sovereign's personal, guarded treasure. This countered cultural views of worth based on birth or achievement, redefining value as derived from divine election and purchase.

κληρονομία (klēronomia, G2817) — inheritance, an allotted possession received by right or promise. κτῆμα (ktēma, G2933) — a piece of property or acquisition, often with a more mundane, material sense.

Word Details

Scripture References