### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **dípsos**, represented by `{{G1373}}`, is a specific term for **thirst**. It is of uncertain affinity and appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, indicating its specialized use to describe this particular physical state of deprivation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G1373}}` is in [[2 Corinthians 11:27]], where the Apostle Paul lists the extensive hardships he has endured for the sake of his ministry. He describes being in "hunger and **thirst**" as part of a catalog of sufferings that includes weariness, painfulness, sleeplessness, and exposure to the elements. In this context, **thirst** is presented as a literal, physical trial that demonstrates the authenticity and sacrifice of his apostolic work.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words appear alongside `{{G1373}}` in Paul's list of afflictions, painting a fuller picture of the challenges of ministry:
* `{{G3042}}` **limós** (a scarcity of food:--dearth, famine, hunger): As the direct counterpart to **thirst**, this word for hunger is paired with it in [[2 Corinthians 11:27]]. It also appears in a list of trials that cannot separate believers from Christ's love, such as **famine** or nakedness [[Romans 8:35]].
* `{{G2873}}` **kópos** (toil... labour, + trouble, weariness): This term describes the exhaustive effort and toil of Paul's work. In [[2 Corinthians 11:27]] it is translated as **weariness**, but it can also refer to productive work, as in the assurance that **labour** in the Lord is not in vain [[1 Corinthians 15:58]].
* `{{G3449}}` **móchthos** (toil, i.e. (by implication) sadness:--painfulness, travail): Often paired with **kópos**, this word emphasizes the painful, burdensome nature of the toil. Paul mentions his **travail** as part of his effort to preach the gospel without being a burden to others [[1 Thessalonians 2:9]].
* `{{G1132}}` **gymnótēs** (nudity...:--nakedness): This word denotes a lack of clothing and protection from the elements, appearing at the end of the list in [[2 Corinthians 11:27]]. Like hunger and **thirst**, it points to a state of extreme physical vulnerability.
### Theological Significance
While rare, the theological weight of `{{G1373}}` comes from its context within Paul's defense of his ministry.
* **Proof of Apostleship:** The experience of physical **thirst** is presented as part of the evidence that Paul is a true minister of Christ, whose suffering for the gospel far exceeds that of his opponents [[2 Corinthians 11:23]].
* **Embodiment of Sacrifice:** The mention of **thirst** grounds the spiritual work of the gospel in tangible, physical hardship. It underscores that serving Christ involves real-world deprivation and suffering [[2 Corinthians 11:27]].
* **A Component of Persecution:** Paired with hunger, nakedness, and peril, **thirst** is situated as one of the many forms of affliction that believers may face, yet which cannot sever them from the love of God [[Romans 8:35]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1373}}` is a straightforward and literal term for **thirst**. Its significance is derived entirely from its single use in [[2 Corinthians 11:27]], where it serves as a powerful detail in Paul’s list of apostolic sufferings. It functions not as a broad theological concept on its own, but as a crucial piece of evidence demonstrating the cost of discipleship and the authenticity of a ministry marked by genuine sacrifice.
TRV