ἐργάζομαι

The Greek verb ergázomai describes the act of working or laboring. Its semantic range emphasizes the expenditure of effort, often with a view toward accomplishment or production. It can refer to manual labor, as seen in the admonition to "work with your own hands" (1 Thessalonians 4:11), or to more general activity, such as a person "working good" (Romans 2:10). The term encompasses both physical and spiritual exertion.

In the New Testament, ergázomai frequently highlights the ethical and spiritual implications of work. It can denote the performance of good deeds (Mark 14:6) or the pursuit of beneficial endeavors. Conversely, the term can carry negative connotations when referring to those who are idle or unwilling to contribute (2 Thessalonians 3:10). The concept of work is often tied to responsibility and a commitment to one's community.

The theological weight of ergázomai is evident in passages that connect work to divine principles. For instance, "love worketh no ill to his neighbour" (Romans 13:10) illustrates how an active manifestation of love fulfills the law. The verb is also used in contexts discussing the "work" of the kingdom of God, as when Jesus speaks of working in the vineyard (Matthew 21:28). This usage broadens the meaning from mere physical effort to purposeful activity with eternal significance.