### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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.
TRV