### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pḗra**, represented by `{{G4082}}`, refers to a **wallet or leather pouch for food**, commonly translated as **scrip**. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is consistently used in the context of instructions given to disciples for their journeys, symbolizing material provisions.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Gospels, `{{G4082}}` is featured in Jesus's commands to his disciples as he sends them on missions. Initially, they are explicitly forbidden from carrying a **scrip**, along with other provisions like **bread** `{{G740}}` [[Mark 6:8]] or extra **coats** `{{G5509}}` [[Matthew 10:10]], to teach them reliance on God's provision. The instruction is to **take** `{{G142}}` **nothing** `{{G3367}}` for their **journey** `{{G3598}}` [[Luke 9:3]]. This instruction is later contrasted in Luke, where Jesus tells them, "**but** `{{G235}}` **now** `{{G3568}}`, he that hath a purse, let him take it, and likewise his **scrip**" [[Luke 22:36]]. This shift is highlighted when Jesus asks if they **lacked** `{{G5302}}` anything when previously sent without a **scrip**, and they reply, "**Nothing** `{{G3762}}`" [[Luke 22:35]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of traveling without provisions:
* `{{G905}}` **balántion** (bag, purse): This item for carrying money is frequently listed with **scrip**, emphasizing a complete lack of personal resources. The disciples are told to **carry** `{{G941}}` neither a **purse** nor a **scrip** [[Luke 10:4]].
* `{{G740}}` **ártos** (bread): As a basic food staple, the prohibition against carrying **bread** alongside the **scrip** underscores the command to trust in receiving sustenance from others [[Mark 6:8]].
* `{{G4464}}` **rhábdos** (staff): This tool for travel is also mentioned in the disciples' packing instructions. In [[Mark 6:8]] they are allowed a **staff** `{{G4464}}` **only** `{{G3440}}`, but in [[Matthew 10:10]] and [[Luke 9:3]] they are told not to take one.
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G4082}}` carries significant theological weight concerning the nature of discipleship and divine provision.
* **Dependence on God:** The initial command to travel without a **scrip** was a direct lesson in faith. Disciples were to trust that God would provide for their needs through the people they served, for "the **workman** `{{G2040}}` is **worthy** `{{G514}}` of his **meat** `{{G5160}}`" [[Matthew 10:10]]. Their later admission of lacking nothing proved this principle [[Luke 22:35]].
* **Urgency of the Mission:** Traveling light, without a **scrip** or other baggage, conveyed the urgency of their message. They were not to be burdened by worldly preparations or even lengthy greetings on the **way** `{{G3598}}` [[Luke 10:4]].
* **Adaptation in Ministry:** The later instruction to take a **scrip** and **purse** `{{G905}}` signals a new phase in ministry where human foresight and preparation would be necessary alongside continued faith [[Luke 22:36]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4082}}` **pḗra** is not merely a traveler's bag but a key symbol in Jesus's training of his disciples. Its presence in scripture, primarily in lists of forbidden items, serves as a powerful illustration of faith, dependence on God's provision, and the evolving nature of the disciples' mission. It demonstrates how a simple object can be used to teach profound spiritual truths.
TRV