The Greek word peináō, represented by G3983, means to famish or, figuratively, to crave. It appears 24 times across 23 unique verses in the Bible. The term describes not only the literal, physical state of being hungry but also a deep spiritual desire or longing.
In scripture, G3983 is used in several distinct ways. It describes literal, physical hunger, such as when Jesus was an hungred after fasting forty days Matthew 4:2, or when his disciples were an hungred and plucked ears of corn Matthew 12:1. The term also depicts the hardships faced by the apostles, who experienced states where they would both hunger and thirst 1 Corinthians 4:11. Figuratively, it is used to describe a spiritual craving, most notably in the Beatitudes, where Jesus blesses those who hunger and thirst after righteousness Matthew 5:6. This spiritual application is further emphasized when Jesus declares Himself the bread of life, promising that anyone who comes to Him shall never hunger John 6:35.
Several related words help to frame the concept of hunger and its satisfaction:
- G5526 chortázō (to fodder, i.e. (generally) to gorge (supply food in abundance):--feed, fill, satisfy): This word serves as the divine response to hunger. It is promised that those who hunger for righteousness "shall be filled" (Matthew 5:6, Luke 6:21).
- G1372 dipsáō (to thirst for (literally or figuratively):--(be, be a-)thirst(-y)): This term is frequently paired with peináō to express a complete state of physical or spiritual need, such as hungering and thirsting for righteousness Matthew 5:6 or the future promise that the redeemed will neither hunger nor thirst any more Revelation 7:16.
- G740 ártos (bread (as raised) or a loaf:--(shew-)bread, loaf): This represents the very substance that satisfies hunger. Jesus uses this concept powerfully when he declares, "I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger" John 6:35.
The theological weight of G3983 is significant, touching on core Christian principles.
- A Condition for Blessing: Spiritual hunger is presented as a prerequisite for divine blessing. The state of being hungry for righteousness is declared blessed G3107, with the promise of being filled (Matthew 5:6, Luke 6:21).
- A Test of Righteousness: How one responds to the physical hunger of others is a mark of true faith. In Jesus's parable of the sheep and the goats, feeding the hungry is an act done directly to Christ, and failing to do so results in condemnation (Matthew 25:35, Matthew 25:42).
- The Nature of Spiritual Fulfillment: The word is used to contrast physical lack with spiritual satisfaction. Paul speaks of being instructed G3453 to be content whether he is hungry or full, abasing or abounding Philippians 4:12, while Jesus promises a permanent end to spiritual hunger for all who come to him John 6:35.
- An Aspect of Judgment: The term is also used in pronouncing woes. Those who are currently "full" are warned that they will one day hunger Luke 6:25, reversing worldly fortunes in a spiritual context.
In summary, G3983 conveys a meaning far deeper than a simple physical sensation. It is a foundational biblical concept that illustrates a state of profound need, both literal and spiritual. Whether describing the physical trials of Jesus and his followers, establishing a benchmark for righteous living, or defining the human longing that only God can satisfy, to hunger is a central theme in understanding need and fulfillment in scripture.
TRV