The answer is: A room

v22 - Paul hoped to be released from prison and visit Philemon again. Whether he did, we don't know.

In the letter to Philemon, Paul offers an interesting sneak peek into his life while he’s incarcerated—not exactly a lot of social outings happening there! The request for a room isn’t just a small detail; it highlights Paul’s deep connections with early Christians and a hope for community life, even from behind bars. The flair of hospitality was critical in the early church, with Christians often opening their homes for gatherings and discussions.

1st-century prison conditions were not quite the Hilton, so we really feel the warmth in Paul's request. While he endorses the grand idea of collecting for a room, admiration for Philemon is at the heart of it all. Interestingly, the relationship between bonds in both citizenship and chosen brotherhood is echoed here—after all, Philemon is directed to welcome Onesimus back, not just as a slave but with the deep honor granted to beloved family.

In fact, there’s something quite radical about this letter! It hints towards the early Christian radical spirit of emancipation; simply acknowledging human dignity challenges the social status quo. Scholars speculate that perhaps Paul did make that joyful visit after all. Even if unsure, the call to reconciliation and forgiveness highlights a vibrant and transformative religious motif that echoed from letter platitudes into everyday practice, emotions, and relationships—a legacy ultimately aimed at love and unity.