The Greek word bóskō, represented by G1006, primarily means to pasture or to feed. It appears 9 times across 9 unique verses. Its definition extends from the literal act of providing fodder for animals to the reflexive action of grazing. The word is used to describe both mundane agricultural tasks and profound spiritual responsibilities.
In its biblical usage, G1006 appears in two distinct contexts. The first is the literal act of herding animals, particularly swine. In the parable of the prodigal son, the young man is sent into the fields G68 to feed G1006 swine, a humbling occupation Luke 15:15. Similarly, the term is used to describe the herd G34 of swine feeding G1006 on the mountainside before the demons enter them (Matthew 8:30, Mark 5:11, Luke 8:32). The men who kept G1006 the swine later fled to report the incident (Matthew 8:33, Luke 8:34). The second, and more theologically significant context, is Jesus's command to Peter after the resurrection. After asking Peter if he loves G5368 him, Jesus instructs him to "Feed G1006 my lambs" John 21:15 and "Feed G1006 my sheep" John 21:17.
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the contexts in which bóskō is used:
- G34 agélē (a drove:--herd): This word is used to describe the group of swine that were feeding G1006 in the narratives of the Gadarene demoniacs, setting the scene for Jesus's miracle (Matthew 8:30, Mark 5:11).
- G4263 próbaton (a sheep): This is the object of Jesus's final command to Peter to feed G1006 his flock, representing the followers of Christ John 21:17. Jesus identifies his sheep G4263 as those who hear his voice and follow him John 10:27.
- G721 arníon (a lambkin:--lamb): This is the object of Jesus's first command to Peter, emphasizing care for the most vulnerable of the flock John 21:15. The term is also used powerfully in Revelation to refer to the Lamb G721 of God Revelation 7:17.
- G2010 epitrépō (to turn over (transfer), i.e. allow): In the account of the demon-possessed man, the demons besought Jesus that he would suffer G2010 them to enter the herd of swine that was feeding G1006 Luke 8:32.
The theological weight of G1006 is found in its transformation from a literal to a metaphorical command.
- Literal Humility and Service: The word's use in the context of herding swine illustrates a lowly form of service. This is most pointed in the parable of the prodigal son, where feeding G1006 pigs represents his lowest point of degradation Luke 15:15.
- Pastoral Commission: In the Gospel of John, Jesus elevates this common word into a sacred charge. The command to Peter to "Feed G1006 my sheep" John 21:17 is a direct commission for pastoral care, linking Peter's professed love G5368 to the tangible act of nurturing the community of believers.
- Spiritual Nourishment: The command implies more than physical provision. It signifies the responsibility of spiritual leaders to provide nourishment, guidance, and protection for God's people, who are referred to as his sheep G4263 and lambs G721.
In summary, G1006 bóskō is a versatile word that bridges the gap between the earthly and the spiritual. While it literally denotes the simple act of pasturing animals, its use in the New Testament culminates in one of the most poignant commands for Christian leadership. It powerfully illustrates how a basic concept of care and feeding is repurposed by Jesus to define the core responsibility of shepherding his flock.
TRV