The Greek word episitismós, represented by G1979, refers to victuals or food. It is derived from a compound of ἐπί and a derivative of σῖτος, signifying a provisioning. Appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, its usage is highly specific.
The sole appearance of G1979 is in Luke 9:12. In this passage, as the day G2250 began to wear away G2827, the twelve G1427 disciples approached Jesus. They were in a desert G2048 place G5117 with a large multitude. The disciples suggested sending the crowd away so they could go into the nearby towns G2968 and country G68 to lodge G2647 and get G2147 victuals G1979, highlighting the practical need for provisions.
Several related words in the immediate context clarify the situation of need:
- G2647 katalýō: Meaning to lodge or halt for the night, this word is used alongside the need for food, indicating the disciples' concern for both shelter and sustenance for the crowd Luke 9:12.
- G2048 érēmos: This word for desert or a desolate place establishes the reason why provisions were not at hand. The setting itself explains the urgency of the disciples' request Luke 9:12.
- G2147 heurískō: Translated as to get or find, this is the action the disciples believed the people needed to take for themselves to obtain food, showing a human-level solution to the logistical problem Luke 9:12.
The theological significance of G1979 is found entirely within its specific narrative context.
- Human Limitation: The word is part of the disciples' assessment of a situation of scarcity. Being in a desert G2048 place G5117, their logical conclusion is that the people must be sent away to fend for themselves Luke 9:12.
- Practical Concern: Its use underscores the reality of physical needs. The disciples' request is motivated by a genuine and practical concern for the hunger of the multitude G3793.
- Narrative Catalyst: The stated lack of victuals G1979 creates the central problem of the scene, establishing the human perspective on a challenge that seems insurmountable without conventional resources.
In summary, G1979 is a precise term for victuals whose meaning is defined by its single use. Its appearance in Luke 9:12 captures a moment of human concern in the face of scarcity. The word effectively frames the disciples' perspective, highlighting their practical solution to the problem of feeding a multitude in a desert G2048 place and setting the stage for the events that follow.
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