from the base of βιβρώσκω; food (literally or figuratively), especially (ceremonially) articles allowed or forbidden by the Jewish law:--meat, victuals.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **brōma**, represented by `{{G1033}}`, refers to **food** or **meat**, both in a literal and figurative sense. It appears 17 times across 15 unique verses and is often used to discuss articles of food allowed or forbidden under Jewish ceremonial law. The term encompasses everything from basic victuals to profound spiritual nourishment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its literal sense, `{{G1033}}` is used to describe physical sustenance. In the feeding of the multitude, the disciples note the need to buy **meat** for the people ([[Luke 9:13]], [[Matthew 14:15]]). The term also applies to basic provisions, as when John the Baptist instructs the one with **meat** to share with him who has none [[Luke 3:11]]. Figuratively, Jesus redefines the concept of nourishment, stating, "My **meat** is to do the will of him that sent me" [[John 4:34]]. Paul also uses the word metaphorically, contrasting the elementary "milk" for immature believers with the solid **meat** of advanced doctrine for the mature [[1 Corinthians 3:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the scope of food and consumption in scripture:
* `{{G1051}}` **gála** (milk): This word is often used figuratively and is directly contrasted with `{{G1033}}` to distinguish between elementary and mature spiritual teaching [[1 Corinthians 3:2]].
* `{{G2907}}` **kréas** (flesh): This refers more specifically to butcher's meat. In a discussion about not offending a brother, Paul declares that if **meat** `{{G1033}}` causes a problem, he will eat no **flesh** `{{G2907}}` at all [[1 Corinthians 8:13]].
* `{{G4188}}` **póma** (drink): This term for a beverage is frequently paired with `{{G1033}}` when discussing the ceremonial regulations of the Old Covenant, which consisted of rules about **meats** and **drinks** [[Hebrews 9:10]].
* `{{G2068}}` **esthíō** (to eat): This verb describes the act of consumption. The morality of eating is not in the food itself but in the context, such as a man who **eateth** with offence [[Romans 14:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1033}}` is primarily concerned with Christian liberty and the nature of the New Covenant.
* **Christian Liberty and Conscience:** Paul extensively uses **meat** as the example for disputes over matters of conscience. He urges believers not to let their liberty in eating **meat** cause a brother to stumble or be grieved [[Romans 14:15]]. The core principle is that the "work of God" should not be destroyed for the sake of **meat** [[Romans 14:20]].
* **Spiritual vs. Physical Focus:** The word highlights a shift in focus from the physical to the spiritual. God created **meats** to be received with thanksgiving [[1 Timothy 4:3]], but one's standing with God is not determined by them [[1 Corinthians 8:8]]. The heart is to be established with grace, not with **meats** [[Hebrews 13:9]].
* **The New Covenant:** The Old Covenant's regulations, which stood "in **meats** and drinks," are described as carnal ordinances that were temporary until a "time of reformation" [[Hebrews 9:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1033}}` functions as more than a simple word for food. While it denotes literal victuals for the body, its greater significance in the New Testament is as a central theme in discussions about Christian freedom, spiritual maturity, and the supremacy of grace over ceremonial law. The term illustrates how a common, physical necessity can be used to teach profound truths about the believer's relationship with God and others.
TRV