### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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