### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **nēstis**, represented by `{{G3523}}`, refers to the state of **fasting**. The word is formed from the inseparable negative particle (not) and ἐσθίω, meaning "not eating, i.e. abstinent from food (religiously)". This specific term appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3523}}` is used in the context of Jesus showing compassion for a large crowd. Having been with him for three days with nothing to eat, Jesus expresses his concern, stating he will not send them away **fasting** `{{G3523}}`, "lest they faint in the way" [[Matthew 15:32]]. A nearly identical account reinforces this, where Jesus again fears that sending the multitude away **fasting** `{{G3523}}` will cause them to "faint by the way" [[Mark 8:3]]. In both instances, the term describes a physical state of hunger that could lead to weakness.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning of being without food:
* `{{G1590}}` **eklýō** (to relax (literally or figuratively):--faint): This word is directly connected to `{{G3523}}` as its immediate physical consequence. In both [[Matthew 15:32]] and [[Mark 8:3]], Jesus is concerned that the people, if sent away **fasting**, will **faint** on their journey.
* `{{G5315}}` **phágō** (to eat (literally or figuratively):--eat, meat): This verb represents the action that is absent in the state of **fasting**. In the context of the crowd, Jesus notes they "have nothing to **eat**" [[Matthew 15:32]], establishing the condition that necessitates his concern.
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{G3523}}` in its biblical usage is focused on physical reality and compassion.
* **Human Weakness:** The term directly links the state of **fasting** not to a spiritual discipline in these passages, but to the physical consequence of fainting `{{G1590}}`. It underscores the body's fundamental need for sustenance.
* **Divine Compassion:** The use of `{{G3523}}` is prompted by Jesus' compassion for the multitude [[Matthew 15:32]]. His refusal to send them away **fasting** demonstrates his concern for their physical well-being.
* **Condition for Peril:** Being **fasting** `{{G3523}}` is presented as a perilous condition for a journey. Jesus identifies it as the direct cause of the risk that the people "faint in the way" ([[Matthew 15:32]], [[Mark 8:3]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3523}}` **nēstis** is a precise term for being in a state of **fasting**, or not eating. While its base definition can include religious abstinence, its specific use in the New Testament highlights a purely physical condition of hunger. Its appearance in [[Matthew 15:32]] and [[Mark 8:3]] serves to underscore Jesus' practical compassion for the physical needs of the people, showing his concern that their lack of food would cause them to faint.
TRV