The Greek word geitōn (γείτων) means neighbor — one who lives nearby or in proximity. It appears in Luke 15 in the parables of the lost sheep and lost coin, where the woman calls her neighbors to celebrate the recovery of what was lost. It also appears in John 9 in reference to the blind man's neighbors.
Geitōn — neighbor — takes on rich theological coloring in Jesus's teaching. When the woman finds her lost coin, she calls her geitones (neighbors) to rejoice together, mirroring the joy in heaven over a repentant sinner. Community joy is integral to the gospel: salvation is not a private transaction but a communal celebration. This contrasts interestingly with the 'Good Samaritan' parable where Jesus redefines 'neighbor' beyond proximity to active compassion.