### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun δόσις (G1394, transliterated *dósis*) is derived from the base of the verb `{{G1325}}` δίδωμι (*didomi*), meaning "to give." Its primary semantic range encompasses two related concepts:
1. **The Act of Giving:** This is the most direct meaning, referring to the process or action of bestowing something.
2. **A Gift (Concretely):** By implication, δόσις can also refer to the object or thing that is given, functioning as a concrete noun for "a gift."
It is crucial to distinguish δόσις from other Greek words for "gift," such as `{{G1431}}` δῶρον (*dōron*), which often refers to a sacrificial offering or tribute, or `{{G1434}}` δώρημα (*dōrēma*), which emphasizes the graciousness of the giver. δόσις often highlights the transaction or the inherent goodness of the thing given, particularly in divine contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
δόσις appears only twice in the New Testament, but each occurrence is significant:
* **[[Philippians 4:15]]**: "Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only."
* Here, δόσις is paired with λῆμψις (*lēmpsis*, "receiving"), forming the phrase "giving and receiving" (δόσις καὶ λῆμψις). This clearly denotes the *act* of financial partnership and mutual support. Paul commends the Philippian church for their unique participation in his ministry through their generous contributions, highlighting a reciprocal relationship of spiritual and material exchange. The emphasis is on the practical transaction of support.
* **[[James 1:17]]**: "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning."
* In this verse, δόσις is used in a more concrete sense, referring to the "good gift" itself. It is coupled with `{{G1434}}` δώρημα (*dōrēma*, "perfect gift"), creating a comprehensive statement about divine beneficence. The context emphasizes God's unchanging nature and His benevolent character as the sole source of all truly good and perfect things. Here, δόσις underscores the inherent goodness and divine origin of the gift.
In the Septuagint (LXX), δόσις appears more frequently, often translating Hebrew terms related to portions, tribute, or gifts. For instance, in [[Proverbs 21:14]], it translates a word for a secret gift that pacifies anger, demonstrating its use for a concrete gift. In [[Ezekiel 46:5]], it refers to the "giving" or portion of a grain offering. These Old Testament uses reinforce both the "act of giving" and "the thing given" aspects of the word.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of "giving" and "gifts" in the Greek New Testament is rich, and δόσις interacts with several related terms:
* **`{{G1325}}` δίδωμι (*didomi*)**: The root verb "to give." δόσις is the noun form of this fundamental action.
* **`{{G1431}}` δῶρον (*dōron*)**: A gift, often with connotations of an offering (to God or a superior), a tribute, or a present (e.g., [[Matthew 2:11]], [[Hebrews 5:1]]).
* **`{{G1434}}` δώρημα (*dōrēma*)**: A gift, highlighting the freeness and graciousness of the giver, often divine (e.g., [[Romans 5:16]], [[James 1:17]] alongside δόσις).
* **`{{G1435}}` δωρεά (*dōrea*)**: A gift, emphasizing its gratuitous and unmerited nature, frequently used for divine spiritual gifts (e.g., the gift of the Holy Spirit, [[Acts 2:38]]).
* **`{{G1390}}` δόμα (*doma*)**: A gift, often in a more general sense, or a physical gift (e.g., [[Matthew 7:11]], [[Ephesians 4:8]]).
While these words overlap, δόσις uniquely emphasizes either the *action* of giving (as in Philippians) or the *inherent quality* and *divine source* of a good gift (as in James), rather than primarily focusing on the form or purpose of the gift (like δῶρον for offerings) or the sheer freeness of it (like δωρεά).
### Theological Significance
The limited but precise use of δόσις in the New Testament carries significant theological weight:
* **Divine Benevolence and Immutability:** In [[James 1:17]], δόσις profoundly articulates the unchanging goodness of God. As the "Father of lights," God is the ultimate and sole source of every "good gift" (δόσις) and "perfect gift" (δώρημα). This verse serves as a foundational declaration of God's character, emphasizing His steadfastness and generosity in contrast to any human variability or darkness. It assures believers that all true blessings originate from a perfectly good and consistent divine will.
* **Partnership in the Gospel and Practical Love:** The context of δόσις in [[Philippians 4:15]] highlights the practical outworking of Christian fellowship and ministry. The "giving and receiving" between Paul and the Philippian church exemplifies a reciprocal relationship of mutual support, where material resources facilitate the spread of the gospel. This is not merely charity, but a deep partnership (κοινωνία, *koinonia*) that demonstrates tangible love and commitment to Christ's mission. It underscores the importance of financial stewardship and generous giving within the believing community as an act of worship and participation in God's work.
* **The Nature of True Goodness:** By associating δόσις with "good" and "perfect" gifts from God, James implicitly defines true goodness as that which originates from the divine. This contrasts with worldly "gifts" that may come with strings attached or prove to be deceptive.
### Summary
δόσις (G1394) is a Greek noun derived from `{{G1325}}` δίδωμι (to give), signifying primarily the *act of giving* and secondarily, the *thing given* or a *gift*. Its two New Testament occurrences illuminate distinct yet complementary theological truths. In [[Philippians 4:15]], δόσις describes the reciprocal financial δόσις (giving) and receiving between Paul and the Philippian church, underscoring the practical partnership and mutual support essential for gospel ministry. In [[James 1:17]], δόσις refers to every "good gift" that descends from the unchanging "Father of lights," thereby affirming God's perfect and unwavering generosity as the ultimate source of all beneficence. While related to other Greek terms for "gift," δόσις often emphasizes the *action* of giving or the inherent *goodness* of the gift from a divine source, distinguishing it from terms focused on the form or purpose of the gift. Consequently, δόσις points to both the tangible expression of Christian love within community and the profound truth of God's immutable and benevolent nature.
TRV