Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: • H7936 שָׂכַר (sakar): To hire, to reward, to engage for service.
• H7939 שָׂכָר (sakar): Wages, reward, payment for labor.

These Hebrew terms similarly convey the idea of hiring or compensating someone for their work, and they appear in various Old Testament passages that discuss labor, service, and reward. The concept of hiring in both the Old and New Testaments underscores the importance of fair treatment and just compensation, reflecting God's concern for justice and equity in human relationships.

Usage: The verb μισθόω is used in the context of hiring or engaging someone for work or service. It implies a transactional relationship where compensation is provided for services rendered.

Context: The Greek verb μισθόω appears in the New Testament in contexts that involve the hiring of laborers or workers. It is a term that reflects the economic practices of the time, where individuals would be employed for specific tasks or periods. The concept of hiring is often used metaphorically in the Scriptures to illustrate spiritual truths, such as the relationship between God and His people or the kingdom of heaven.

In the Berean Standard Bible, μισθόω is used in the parable of the workers in the vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16). Here, the landowner hires laborers at different times of the day, yet pays them the same wage, illustrating the generosity and sovereignty of God in dispensing grace. The parable emphasizes that the kingdom of heaven operates on principles that transcend human notions of fairness and merit.

The act of hiring in biblical times was not only a matter of economic necessity but also a reflection of social and relational dynamics. The employer-employee relationship was governed by mutual expectations and obligations, often reflecting broader societal values and norms.