### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word ὀπτός (optós), Strong's `{{G3702}}`, carries the core meaning of "cooked," specifically indicating food prepared by direct heat, such as "roasted" or "broiled." Its etymological root points to an obsolete verb related to the process of "steeping" or preparing by heat, emphasizing a state of being thoroughly cooked through this method. The semantic range is therefore quite narrow and precise, referring to a culinary state achieved through roasting or broiling.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ὀπτός appears only once in the New Testament, found in [[Luke 24:42]]. In this pivotal post-resurrection account, the disciples are startled and terrified by Jesus' sudden appearance, believing they are seeing a spirit. To dispel their fear and provide tangible proof of His bodily resurrection, Jesus asks for food: "They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he took it and ate before them" ([[Luke 24:42-43]]). The specific mention of "broiled fish" (ἰχθύος ὀπτοῦ) is crucial. It underscores the physical reality of Jesus' resurrected body. He is not a phantom or a disembodied spirit, but a tangible being capable of human actions like eating. The context highlights the disciples' initial disbelief and Jesus' deliberate act of demonstrating His corporeal presence through an ordinary, physical action, thereby validating the truth of His resurrection.
### Related Words & Concepts
While ὀπτός itself is unique in its single New Testament occurrence, its meaning connects to broader biblical themes and related vocabulary. It is inherently linked to terms describing food (βρῶμα `{{G1033}}`), eating (ἐσθίω `{{G2068}}`), and the physical body (σῶμα `{{G4983}}`). The concept of "flesh" (σάρξ `{{G4561}}`) is also relevant, as Jesus' act of eating demonstrated that His resurrected body was indeed flesh and bone, albeit glorified. The preparation of food by fire or heat is a common biblical motif, seen in sacrificial offerings (e.g., burnt offerings, ὁλοκαύτωμα `{{G3646}}`) and daily sustenance, though ὀπτός specifically denotes the state of being cooked rather than the act of cooking itself.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of ὀπτός in [[Luke 24:42]] carries profound theological weight, particularly for Christology and eschatology. The "broiled fish" serves as undeniable empirical evidence of Jesus' physical, corporeal resurrection. This detail directly refutes any docetic tendencies (the belief that Jesus' body was an illusion) or the notion that His resurrection was merely spiritual or apparitional. By eating, Jesus demonstrated the continuity between His crucified body and His resurrected body, affirming that it was truly *He* who had risen, not merely His spirit. This act provides a tangible assurance of the bodily resurrection for believers, indicating that our future resurrection will also involve a real, transformed body, not just a disembodied existence. It underscores the reality of Jesus' humanity, even in His glorified state, and validates the truth of His claims and the reality of His victory over death.
### Summary
The Greek word ὀπτός (`{{G3702}}`) precisely denotes something "cooked," specifically "roasted" or "broiled." Its sole biblical appearance in [[Luke 24:42]] is exceptionally significant, describing the "broiled fish" that the resurrected Jesus ate before His disciples. This seemingly simple detail serves as a powerful theological anchor, providing concrete proof of Jesus' physical, corporeal resurrection and refuting any notion of a mere spiritual or illusory return. It assures believers of the future reality of their own bodily resurrection and underscores the tangible nature of Christ's triumph over death.
TRV