πωλέω

I sell

Definition

The Greek verb πωλέω (pōleō) primarily means 'to sell' or 'to exchange for money,' as seen in the sale of sparrows (Matthew 10:29) or a field (Matthew 13:44). It can also imply the act of bartering or trading goods in a marketplace context, such as the merchants Jesus drove out of the temple (Matthew 21:12). In a more figurative or absolute sense, it denotes the complete relinquishment of one's possessions, as Jesus commanded the rich young ruler to 'sell what you possess' (Matthew 19:21), implying a total divestment.

Biblical Usage

πωλέω is used 20 times in the New Testament, predominantly in the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke). Its usage is almost exclusively literal, describing commercial transactions like selling birds, property, or oil (Matthew 10:29, 13:44, 25:9). A significant concentration occurs in the temple-clearing narratives (Matthew 21:12, Mark 11:15), highlighting improper trade in a sacred space. The imperative to 'sell' one's belongings appears in teachings on discipleship and wealth (Matthew 19:21, Mark 10:21, Luke 12:33), giving the word a weighty ethical application.

Etymology

Derived from the ancient Greek verb πωλέω, meaning 'to sell' or 'to exchange.' It is related to the noun πωλητής (pōlētēs, G4453 in some contexts, meaning 'seller'), and shares a root with words involving trade or exchange. Its meaning remained consistent from classical through Koine Greek, firmly centered on commercial transfer of goods.

Semantic Range

While primarily a commercial term, πωλέω gains theological significance in Jesus's teachings on wealth and discipleship. His command to 'sell your possessions' (Matthew 19:21) uses this ordinary market verb to dramatize the call to total reliance on God and freedom from materialism. This frames discipleship as a decisive transaction, exchanging earthly security for heavenly treasure. Understanding this Greek term underscores the radical, concrete nature of Jesus's demand, moving beyond metaphor to a call for tangible action.

In the first-century Greco-Roman world, selling was a central part of the agrarian and urban economy, often conducted in open markets (agoras). The temple markets (John 2:14-16) were a specific cultural institution where pilgrims could buy animals for sacrifice, a practice Jesus challenged. Selling one's entire estate, as commanded in Matthew 19:21, would have been a shocking and socially disruptive act, severing normal economic ties and family inheritance, highlighting the cost of discipleship.

ἀγοράζω (agorazō, G59) — emphasizes the act of buying or purchasing in the marketplace. ἐμπορεύομαι (emporeuomai, G1710) — focuses on trading, engaging in commerce, or being a merchant.

Word Details

Scripture References