The Greek word deipnéō, represented by G1172, means to dine, i.e. take the principle (or evening) meal. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. The word is consistently translated as "sup" or is used in the context of "supper," signifying the main meal of the day.
In its biblical usage, G1172 is found in highly significant contexts. It is twice used to frame the institution of the Lord's Supper, with the cup of the new testament being presented "after supper" Luke 22:20 and after Jesus "had supped" 1 Corinthians 11:25. In a parable in Luke 17:8, a master instructs his servant to prepare a meal so he can sup, highlighting the act of dining. Perhaps its most profound use is in Revelation 3:20, where Jesus promises the believer who opens the door, "I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me," symbolizing intimate fellowship.
Several related words help clarify the actions surrounding the main meal:
- G2090 hetoimázō: from ἕτοιμος; to prepare. In Luke 17:8, a servant is instructed to "Make ready" that with which the master may sup G1172, indicating the preparation required for the meal.
- G1247 diakonéō: from διάκονος; to be an attendant, i.e. wait upon... serve. This action follows the preparation in Luke 17:8, where the servant is told to "serve" the master while he dines.
- G5315 phágō: a primary verb... to eat. This is a component of the action of supping. In Luke 17:8, the master expects to have "eaten" and drunken before the servant can have his own meal.
- G4095 pínō: a prolonged form... to imbibe (literally or figuratively):--drink. This action is paired with eating. The cup is taken after having supped in the context of the new testament 1 Corinthians 11:25, and the master in the parable will eat and drink Luke 17:8.
The theological weight of G1172 is significant despite its infrequent use.
- Covenantal Meal: The act of "supping" provides the setting for the New Covenant. The meal shared by Jesus with His disciples becomes the foundational moment for the new testament in His blood (Luke 22:20, 1 Corinthians 11:25).
- Intimate Fellowship: The word is used metaphorically in Revelation 3:20 to describe the deep, personal relationship offered by Christ. To sup with Jesus is to enter into communion and fellowship with him.
- Divine Priority: The parable in Luke 17:8 illustrates a principle of service where the master must first sup. This highlights a structure of service and readiness in relation to a master's needs.
In summary, G1172 is a focused term that signifies more than just an evening meal. It is the specific backdrop against which the New Covenant is established in the Gospels and Epistles. Furthermore, it is elevated in Revelation to become one of scripture's most poignant metaphors for the intimate, personal fellowship that Christ desires to have with believers. The act of "supping" thus carries immense symbolic weight, pointing to both covenant and communion.
TRV