σχολάζω

I have leisure, stand empty

Definition

The verb σχολάζω primarily means 'to have leisure' or 'to be at leisure,' indicating a state of being free from work or occupation. In a more specific sense, it can mean 'to be empty' or 'to be vacant,' as applied to a physical space like a house. This second meaning is vividly illustrated in Matthew 12:44, where an unclean spirit finds a person's 'house' (a metaphor for the person's life) 'empty' (σχολάζοντα), swept, and put in order. In 1 Corinthians 7:5, the word carries the sense of 'devoting leisure' or 'giving attention,' as Paul instructs couples not to deprive each other except by mutual consent for a time to σχολάζω (devote themselves) to prayer.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the New Testament, in two distinct contexts. In Matthew 12:44, it is used metaphorically to describe a spiritual state of emptiness or vacancy, which creates a dangerous opportunity for evil. In 1 Corinthians 7:5, it is used in a practical, marital context to describe the intentional setting aside of ordinary relations to create leisure or undistracted time for focused spiritual activity (prayer).

Etymology

Derived from the noun σχολή (scholē, G4981), meaning 'leisure,' 'rest,' or 'a school' (a place of learned leisure). The verb σχολάζω literally means 'to spend one's leisure,' 'to be at leisure,' or by extension, 'to be empty' because something is not occupied or in use.

Semantic Range

This word highlights important spiritual principles. In Matthew 12:44, it warns against a merely negative spiritual state—being empty of evil is not enough; one must be positively filled with God's presence (the Holy Spirit) to avoid a worse condition. In 1 Corinthians 7:5, it underscores the value of intentional, temporary withdrawal from good things (marital relations) to create sacred space (leisure) for pursuing God, emphasizing discipline and priority in the spiritual life.

In the Greco-Roman world, 'leisure' (σχολή) was not mere idleness but the freedom from necessary labor that allowed for education, philosophy, and civic participation. The concept carried positive connotations of opportunity for higher pursuits. The metaphorical use for an 'empty' house draws on a common cultural understanding of vacancy as an invitation for occupation, whether by a welcome guest or an unwelcome squatter.

ἀργός (argos, G692) — emphasizes idleness or inactivity, often in a negative sense of being useless. κενός (kenos, G2756) — emphasizes emptiness in terms of being void, hollow, or without content or purpose.

Word Details

Scripture References