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.
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.
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.
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.
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