### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pénēs**, represented by `{{G3993}}`, describes someone who is **poor** or indigent. Its definition specifies a person who is "starving" and must "toil for daily subsistence." This specific term appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its single usage particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{G3993}}` is in [[2 Corinthians 9:9]], within a quotation emphasizing the virtues of generous giving. The passage states, "As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the **poor**: his righteousness remaineth for ever." In this context, the **poor** are presented as the recipients of a charitable act that is a direct expression of a person's lasting righteousness.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words found in its only context help to clarify the meaning of this act of giving:
* `{{G4650}}` **skorpízō** (dispersed abroad): Defined as "to dissipate" or "be liberal," this word describes the generous, scattering nature of the giving. This same word is used by Jesus to describe the opposite of gathering with Him [[Matthew 12:30]].
* `{{G1325}}` **dídōmi** (given): Meaning simply "to give," this verb names the central action directed toward the **poor** [[2 Corinthians 9:9]]. Its broad application is seen in foundational verses like [[John 3:16]], where God **gave** His Son.
* `{{G1343}}` **dikaiosýnē** (righteousness): This term for "equity" or "justification" is the resulting virtue of giving to the poor. The importance of **righteousness** is a core biblical concept, as seen in the instruction to seek God's kingdom and His **righteousness** [[Matthew 6:33]].
* `{{G1125}}` **gráphō** (written): Meaning "to write" or "describe," this word introduces the quotation in [[2 Corinthians 9:9]], establishing that the principle of providing for the poor is rooted in established scripture.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3993}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context in [[2 Corinthians 9:9]].
* **Righteous Liberality:** The act of giving to the **poor** is directly linked to an enduring **righteousness**. The use of **skorpízō** `{{G4650}}`, meaning to disperse, suggests that this righteousness is demonstrated through liberal generosity.
* **Fulfillment of Scripture:** The phrase "As it is **written**" `{{G1125}}` elevates giving to the indigent from a simple act of kindness to a fulfillment of a scriptural principle.
* **Eternal Significance:** The passage explicitly states that the **righteousness** `{{G1343}}` demonstrated by this act "remaineth for ever," connecting a tangible act of charity to an eternal spiritual reality.
### Summary
In summary, although `{{G3993}}` **pénēs** is one of the rarer words in the New Testament, its single appearance provides a profound theological statement. It is used to define the **poor** as the intended recipients of a generous and liberal charity. This act is not portrayed as a mere social obligation but as a key demonstration of a **righteousness** that is rooted in scripture and has everlasting significance.
TRV