### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **eucharistéō**, represented by `{{G2168}}`, is defined as being grateful or actively expressing gratitude. It appears 41 times across 38 unique verses. The definition extends from a general sense of being **thankful** to the specific act of saying grace at a meal.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G2168}}` appears in several key contexts. It is presented as a constant practice for believers, who are instructed to **give thanks** in every thing [[1 Thessalonians 5:18]] and always for all things [[Ephesians 5:20]]. A prominent use is in the actions of Jesus, who **gave thanks** before breaking bread [[Luke 22:19]] and distributing loaves to the multitude [[Matthew 15:36]]. The failure to be **thankful** is conversely shown as a characteristic of a darkened heart that has turned from God [[Romans 1:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of gratitude and its expression:
* `{{G5485}}` **cháris** (grace, thanks): This word is foundational to `eucharistéō`, representing the divine favor or gift that inspires gratitude. Thanks is given for the **grace** of God, which is a gift given to believers [[1 Corinthians 1:4]].
* `{{G1392}}` **doxázō** (to glorify): Giving thanks is presented as an essential part of glorifying God. In a key passage, those who knew God are condemned because they did not **glorify** Him, "neither were thankful" [[Romans 1:21]].
* `{{G2983}}` **lambánō** (to take): This action often immediately precedes giving thanks, particularly in narratives about Jesus. He would first **take** the bread or the cup, and then give thanks over it before distributing it ([[Matthew 26:27]], [[Mark 8:6]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2168}}` is significant, framing gratitude as a core tenet of the Christian life.
* **An Expression of God's Will:** Scripture presents giving thanks not as an option but as a direct expression of God's will for believers. This is stated explicitly in the command to "**give thanks** in every thing, for this is the will of God" [[1 Thessalonians 5:18]].
* **Christ as the Mediator of Thanks:** Gratitude is consistently offered to **God** the Father through the person of Jesus Christ. Believers are instructed to do all things "in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving **thanks** to God and the Father by him" [[Colossians 3:17]].
* **Central to Communion:** The act of giving **thanks** is foundational to the remembrance of Christ's sacrifice. Jesus himself **gave thanks** when instituting the breaking of bread and the cup, forever linking this act of gratitude with Christian worship ([[Luke 22:19]], [[1 Corinthians 11:24]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2168}}` defines more than a simple feeling; it is an active expression of gratitude that is central to a believer's relationship with God. It is commanded as God's will, modeled by Christ, and directed to the Father through the Son. From giving **thanks** for a meal to expressing gratitude for salvation, **eucharistéō** demonstrates that a life of faith is a life of continual thanksgiving.
TRV