### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **gála**, represented by `{{G1051}}`, is a term for **milk**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. While it has a literal meaning, its primary scriptural use is figurative, representing the foundational nourishment required by those who are new or immature in their faith, as opposed to more substantial teaching.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G1051}}` serves as a key metaphor for elementary spiritual doctrine. It is contrasted with solid food to distinguish between levels of spiritual maturity. The book of Hebrews explains that those who need **milk** are like a "babe" `{{G3516}}` and are "unskilful in the word of righteousness" [[Hebrews 5:13]]. They are not yet ready for "strong meat" `{{G4731}}` `{{G5160}}` [[Hebrews 5:12]]. Paul makes a similar point, telling the Corinthians he **fed** them with **milk** because they were not yet able to handle "meat" `{{G1033}}` [[1 Corinthians 3:2]]. Its only literal use in the source material refers to a person's right to drink the **milk** from a flock `{{G4167}}` they feed `{{G4165}}` [[1 Corinthians 9:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of spiritual nourishment:
* `{{G3516}}` **nḗpios** (an immature Christian): This word describes the recipient of **milk**. Someone who uses **milk** is considered a **babe** [[Hebrews 5:13]], and Paul addresses the immature Corinthians as **babes** in Christ [[1 Corinthians 3:1]].
* `{{G5160}}` **trophḗ** (nourishment; food, meat): This term for solid food is contrasted with **milk**. "Strong **meat**" `{{G4731}}` is for those of full age, while **milk** is for those who still need the first principles of God's oracles ([[Hebrews 5:12]], [[Hebrews 5:14]]).
* `{{G4222}}` **potízō** (to furnish drink, feed): This verb describes the action of giving **milk**. Paul uses this word to explain his method of teaching the Corinthians, stating, "I have **fed** you with milk" [[1 Corinthians 3:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1051}}` is centered on its role as a marker for spiritual development.
* **Foundational Doctrine:** **Milk** represents the most basic and essential teachings of faith. It is described as the "sincere **milk** of the word," which newborn `{{G738}}` babes `{{G1025}}` should desire [[1 Peter 2:2]], and is equated with the "first principles of the oracles of God" [[Hebrews 5:12]].
* **Indicator of Immaturity:** A sustained need for **milk** is a sign of spiritual immaturity. Those who are not ready for solid food are considered "unskilful" and like a **babe** `{{G3516}}` [[Hebrews 5:13]].
* **Essential for Growth:** While associated with immaturity, **milk** is presented as a vital starting point. Believers are encouraged to desire it so that they "may grow thereby" [[1 Peter 2:2]], establishing it as the initial nourishment for the Christian journey.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1051}}` is far more than a simple dietary term. It serves as a powerful biblical metaphor for foundational spiritual truth. It illustrates the critical distinction between elementary doctrine, which is necessary for new believers, and the "strong meat" `{{G4731}}` `{{G5160}}` intended for the spiritually mature, thereby providing a crucial metric for understanding Christian growth and development.
TRV