### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ephḗmeros**, represented by `{{G2184}}`, defines something lasting **for a day**. Derived from ἐπί (on or for) and ἡμέρα (day), its meaning is captured in the English word "ephemeral." It appears only **1 time** in the entire Bible, yet this single use powerfully illustrates the concept of immediate, daily necessity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole instance of `{{G2184}}` is found in a passage about the nature of true faith. The verse describes a hypothetical but serious situation where a fellow believer is in dire straits: "If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of **daily** food" [[James 2:15]]. Here, **ephḗmeros** modifies "food," emphasizing that the need is not for long-term wealth but for the basic sustenance required to get through that very day. The word underscores the urgency and practicality of the required response.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the same passage help frame the context of this daily need:
* `{{G80}}` **adelphós** (brother): From Α (as a connective particle) and (the womb); a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like Α). This term establishes that the person in need is part of the community of faith, making their care a direct responsibility [[James 2:15]].
* `{{G3007}}` **leípō** (destitute/lack): a primary verb; to leave, i.e. (intransitively or passively) to fail or be absent. In the verse, being "destitute" is directly tied to the lack of daily food, signifying a complete absence of necessary provision [[James 2:15]].
* `{{G5160}}` **trophḗ** (food): from τρέφω; nourishment (literally or figuratively); by implication, rations (wages). This is the specific object of the daily need, representing the most fundamental requirement for life, which the believer in the passage lacks [[James 2:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2184}}` is derived entirely from its pointed use in James. It serves to anchor a crucial argument about the nature of genuine faith.
* **Active Compassion:** The term "daily" food reframes compassion as an immediate, practical action rather than a sentimental feeling. It highlights that true faith responds to tangible, day-to-day needs.
* **Contrast with Empty Words:** By specifying the need as "daily," the passage sets up a sharp contrast between offering empty well-wishes and providing the actual nourishment a person needs to survive the day [[James 2:15]].
* **Immediacy of Care:** The ephemeral nature of the need—for just one day—demands an equally immediate response. It illustrates that Christian charity is not an abstract concept but a hands-on, urgent duty to care for one's brother or sister.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2184}}` is a highly specific term whose single biblical appearance carries significant impact. It defines a need as being "for the day," anchoring the argument in [[James 2:15]] about the necessity of demonstrating faith through tangible works. The word **ephḗmeros** transforms a discussion about faith into a command for immediate, practical action, proving that even the rarest of biblical words can be central to a vital theological point.
TRV