πρᾶγμα

a thing done, a matter

Definition

The Greek word πρᾶγμα (pragma) primarily means 'a thing done' or 'a deed,' referring to an action, event, or matter that has occurred or is under consideration. In the New Testament, it often denotes a specific legal case or dispute, as seen in 1 Corinthians 6:1 where believers are warned against taking 'matters' (πρᾶγμα) before secular courts. It can also refer to general affairs or business, such as in Romans 16:2 where Phoebe is assisted 'in whatever matter' she may need. In some contexts, it carries a more serious connotation of a sinful deed or transgression, particularly in 1 Thessalonians 4:6, which warns against wronging a brother 'in the matter' (likely referring to sexual immorality or fraud).

Biblical Usage

Πρᾶγμα is used 11 times in the New Testament, appearing in various contexts including Gospels, Acts, Pauline epistles, and Hebrews. Its usage often relates to practical, concrete matters rather than abstract ideas. In legal or dispute contexts, it appears in 1 Corinthians 6:1 and Matthew 18:19 (regarding agreement 'about any matter'). In narrative settings, it refers to historical events or accounts (Luke 1:1, Acts 5:4). Paul uses it for serious ethical issues (1 Thessalonians 4:6) and to describe the earnestness produced by godly grief (2 Corinthians 7:11). Hebrews 6:18 uses it in the plural ('two unchangeable things') referring to God's promise and oath.

Etymology

Πρᾶγμα derives from the verb πράσσω (prassō, G4238), meaning 'to do, practice, or accomplish.' The suffix -μα indicates the result of the action, hence 'a thing done.' It is related to the English word 'pragmatic,' which conveys a practical, matter-of-fact approach. The root meaning emphasizes concrete action and practical affairs, distinguishing it from more abstract terms for 'word' (λόγος) or 'thing' (χρῆμα).

Semantic Range

Πρᾶγμα is theologically significant as it often highlights the practical outworking of faith and ethics within the Christian community. In 1 Corinthians 6:1, it underscores the principle that believers should resolve disputes internally, reflecting the church's distinct identity and wisdom. In 1 Thessalonians 4:6, it emphasizes the seriousness of ethical conduct, particularly in relationships, as a matter of divine accountability. Understanding πρᾶγμα enriches reading by revealing how biblical authors connected doctrine to tangible actions and communal responsibilities, stressing that faith manifests in concrete matters of daily life and justice.

In the Greco-Roman world, πρᾶγμα commonly referred to public or private business, legal affairs, or political matters. Its use in 1 Corinthians 6:1 taps into a cultural context where honor and social standing were often pursued through litigation. For early Christians, avoiding secular courts was counter-cultural, asserting the community's self-regulation and distinct ethical standards. The word's association with serious transgressions (as in 1 Thessalonians 4:6) reflects the high value placed on social harmony and personal integrity in both Jewish and Greco-Roman ethics.

ἔργον (ergon, G2041) — a work or deed, often with a focus on the labor or product itself, whereas πρᾶγμα emphasizes the matter or affair as a whole. χρῆμα (chrēma, G5536) — a thing or matter, but often specifically related to money or useful objects. πράξις (praxis, G4234) — a doing or practice, more abstract than πρᾶγμα, focusing on the action rather than the concrete matter.

Word Details

Scripture References