[Greek] πραγματεύομαι (pragmateuomai), [Latin] negotiari: to busy oneself, to do business, to occupy, to trade, to put capital to work, to be engaged in business; Lk.19:13,15
The public Agora in Delos Greece where merchants sold their wares
Background information:
Greek Hellenism: This term means to pursue with vigor, to render political service, to seek intellectual pursuits, and to conduct business affairs. It was quite prestigious to have an opportunity to serve the state or be charged with affairs of state. In a military context, this term refers to occupy or seize a territory. Various philosophers and playwrights explored aspects of political affairs and business practices. Polybius’ Histories was primarily concerned about how ancient Rome achieved such power. Polybius concluded Rome’s success was based on the mixture of democracy, autocracy, and monarchy. Strabo’s Geography illustrated that the Temple of Aphrodite was so rich, that it had more than 100 temple slaves, courtesans, and attendants. The city was so crowded with people and that it grew rapidly.
Old Testament: This term is related to the Hebrew asah which means to do business, to accomplish, to make, and to finish. This term also refers to property gained as a result of labor, business, industry, and workmanship. This also refers to the work that God accomplishes in Genesis. This Hebrew term is tied to melakah, meaning occupation, business, or skilled work. Melakah also means ambassador, messenger, or minister, indicating a position. On six days work may be done (Ex.35:2). Anyone who works on the Sabbath day shall be put to death (Ex.32:15). On the seventh day God completed the work He had been doing (Gen.2:2). On the first of these days you will have a declared holy day; you shall do no heavy work (Lev.23:7). Over the farm workers who tilled the soil was Ezri (1Chr.27:26). Some went off to sea in ships, plied their trade on the deep waters (Psa.107:23).
New Testament: This term is only found in Luke 19:13,15, meaning to do business and to make a profit. An emporos (merchant) is one who is on a journey (poros). This person is a trader, selling his wares. The emporium is the place where merchandise is sold. The parable of the ten gold coins stresses the importance of the stewardship of the gifts that one receives. It is more important to bear fruit (profit) and show generosity.
Scripture:
“He called ten of his servants and gave them ten gold coins and told them, ‘Engage in trade with these until I return.’” Lk. 19:13
This parable illustrates the importance of stewardship of these gifts in which one receives.
“But when he returned after obtaining the kingship, he had the servants called, to whom he had given the money, to learn what they had gained by trading.” Lk. 19:15
The ability to distribute wealth is based according to one’s abilities. What one receives, these gifts must not be wasted, neglected, or diminished.
Conclusion:
Pragmatic, pragmatism, negotiate, negotiator, pragmatist
For the individual, it was a highly held value to serve the state in some capacity. Much prestige came along with this type of position. I can also image the wealthy and influential person who would have the time and luxury to pursuit the arts and other hobbies. Philosophers would also pursue their intellectual interests.
The concept of work was very important since the beginning of God’s creation. But work was forbidden on the Sabbath. In the simple Old Testament culture, work was illustrated by craftsmen and skilled trades. However, the New Testament culture sheds light on the precursor to the modern merchant and businessman. Profit becomes important in light of the efficiency, effectiveness, and generosity of the merchant.
A pragmatist is one who is guided by practical considerations rather than by ideals. The merchant or business is a perfect example of a pragmatist who runs his business (practice).