### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun θρέμμα (thrémma, `{{G2353}}`) is derived from the verb τρέφω (trephō, `{{G5142}}`), which signifies "to nourish," "to rear," or "to feed." Consequently, θρέμμα denotes "that which is nourished or reared," specifically referring to domesticated animals, livestock, or "cattle" in a broad sense. This term emphasizes the human act of raising and caring for animals, distinguishing them from wild beasts. It encompasses animals typically kept on a farm for sustenance, labor, or economic value, such as oxen, sheep, goats, or other farm animals. The semantic range is therefore narrow, focusing on the product of human husbandry rather than animals in general.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term θρέμμα appears only once in the New Testament, found in the Gospel of John:
* **[[John 4:12]]**: "Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, and his sons, and his cattle [θρέμματα]?"
In this passage, spoken by the Samaritan woman to Jesus at Jacob's well, θρέμματα refers to Jacob's livestock. The context highlights the immense value and necessity of the well's water, not only for Jacob and his family but also for their animals. For nomadic or semi-nomadic pastoralists like Jacob, access to water for their θρέμματα was critical for survival and prosperity. The inclusion of θρέμματα underscores the comprehensive provision that Jacob secured for his household, emphasizing the tangible, life-sustaining benefits of the well. It grounds the spiritual discourse about "living water" in the immediate, physical realities of ancient life and the practical needs of patriarchs and their dependents, including their valuable livestock.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Greek words relate to θρέμμα by describing animals or aspects of animal husbandry, yet each carries distinct nuances:
* **τρέφω (trephō, `{{G5142}}`)**: The root verb, meaning "to nourish," "to feed," or "to bring up." This foundational verb highlights the essential activity behind the existence of θρέμμα—the deliberate act of human care and provision.
* **ζῷον (zōon, `{{G2226}}`)**: A general term for "living creature" or "animal," which can include both wild and domesticated animals. Unlike θρέμμα, ζῷον does not inherently convey the sense of being reared by humans.
* **κτῆνος (ktēnos, `{{G2934}}`)**: Refers to a "beast" or "beast of burden," often domesticated animals used for labor or transport. While κτῆνος often overlaps with θρέμμα in referring to domesticated animals, θρέμμα emphasizes the aspect of being "reared" or "fed," whereas κτῆνος often highlights their utility as property or for work.
* **πρόβατον (probaton, `{{G4263}}`)**: Specifically denotes "sheep" or "flock of sheep." This is a more specific category of livestock that would fall under the broader umbrella of θρέμμα.
* **βοῦς (bous, `{{G1016}}`)**: Refers to an "ox" or "cow," another specific type of livestock.
The uniqueness of θρέμμα lies in its direct etymological link to the act of nourishment and rearing, emphasizing the human role in sustaining these animals for specific purposes within a domestic or agricultural setting.
### Theological Significance
Though θρέμμα appears only once, its presence in [[John 4:12]] offers subtle theological insights.
Firstly, it underscores the **comprehensive nature of divine provision**. The well, a gift from Jacob, sustained not only human life but also the lives of their valuable livestock. This echoes the Old Testament understanding that God provides for all creation, including animals (e.g., [[Psalm 36:6]], [[Psalm 145:15-16]]). The patriarchs' wealth and survival were inextricably linked to the well-being of their θρέμματα, which were themselves a blessing from God.
Secondly, the concept of "rearing" implied by θρέμμα points to **human stewardship over creation**. Humans are entrusted with the care and management of animals, a responsibility rooted in the creation mandate (e.g., [[Genesis 1:28]]). The patriarch Jacob's provision for his θρέμματα exemplifies this diligent care.
Finally, in the broader context of [[John 4]], the mention of θρέμματα serves as a tangible backdrop against which Jesus introduces the concept of "living water." The physical water from Jacob's well sustained physical life, including that of animals, but Jesus offers a spiritual water that leads to eternal life, transcending even the most vital earthly provisions. The mundane reality of water for θρέμματα provides a stark contrast to the profound spiritual truth Jesus unveils.
### Summary
The Greek word θρέμμα (thrémma, `{{G2353}}`) precisely denotes "reared stock" or "livestock," emphasizing animals that are intentionally nourished and cared for by humans. Its single New Testament occurrence in [[John 4:12]] highlights the critical role of water for sustaining not only human life but also the valuable θρέμματα of patriarchal households. This detail subtly contributes to the biblical narrative by underscoring the comprehensive nature of divine provision, the human responsibility of stewardship over creation, and the tangible realities of life that serve as a backdrop for profound spiritual revelation. While seemingly minor, θρέμμα grounds the sacred narrative in the practicalities of ancient existence, revealing how even the sustenance of animals is woven into the fabric of God's care.
TRV