a prolonged form of ; which (together with another form) ; occurs only as an alternate in certain tenses; to imbibe (literally or figuratively):--drink.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pínō**, represented by `{{G4095}}`, means **to imbibe**, either literally or figuratively. It appears **80 times** across **66 unique verses** in the Bible, establishing its role in describing both physical sustenance and profound spiritual realities. Its usage ranges from the simple act of drinking water or wine to the symbolic partaking of Christ's sacrifice or God's wrath.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{G4095}}` is used in several key contexts. Literally, it refers to the basic human need for drink, as seen in Jesus' teaching not to worry about what one shall **drink** [[Matthew 6:25]]. It also appears in social settings, such as when Jesus's critics accused him of **drinking** with publicans and sinners [[Matthew 11:19]]. Figuratively, it conveys the idea of receiving spiritual life. Jesus offers a woman "living water" and promises that whoever **drinks** of the water He gives will never thirst [[John 4:14]]. The word also carries immense weight in the context of divine judgment, where those who worship the beast shall **drink** of the wine of the wrath of God [[Revelation 14:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of drinking and its associated actions:
* `{{G2068}}` **esthíō** (to eat): Often used in parallel with `{{G4095}}`, this word for eating completes the concept of basic sustenance. This pairing is evident in instructions to do all things, whether you **eat** or drink, to the glory of God [[1 Corinthians 10:31]].
* `{{G1372}}` **dipsáō** (to thirst for): This word describes the state that precedes drinking. Jesus uses it to invite the thirsty to come to Him and **drink** [[John 7:37]].
* `{{G4221}}` **potḗrion** (a drinking-vessel; a cup): This is the vessel from which one drinks. It is used both for the literal cup of the Lord's Supper [[1 Corinthians 11:27]] and figuratively for a person's fate, as when Jesus asks if his disciples are able to **drink** the **cup** that He shall drink of [[Matthew 20:22]].
* `{{G3631}}` **oînos** (wine): This is a common beverage mentioned in connection with drinking. Paul advises that it is good not to **drink** **wine** if it causes a brother to stumble [[Romans 14:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4095}}` is profound, especially in its figurative applications.
* **Spiritual Sustenance:** The act of drinking is a primary metaphor for receiving eternal life. Jesus offers living **water** [[John 4:10]] and identifies himself with a spiritual **drink** that permanently quenches thirst, representing the unending satisfaction found in Him [[John 4:14]].
* **Communion with Christ:** Partaking in Christ's sacrifice is described as drinking his **blood** [[John 6:53]]. This act is central to the new **testament** established in His blood, commemorated through the cup of the Lord's Supper [[1 Corinthians 11:25]]. To **drink** unworthily is to be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord [[1 Corinthians 11:27]].
* **Acceptance of Divine Will:** To **drink** a "cup" signifies accepting a divine appointment, whether of suffering or of judgment. Jesus submits to His Father's will by His readiness to **drink** the cup given to Him [[John 18:11]]. In contrast, the unrighteous are made to **drink** a cup of God's wrath [[Revelation 14:10]].
* **Christ as the Source:** Paul connects the Israelites' journey through the wilderness to Christ, stating that they all **drank** the same spiritual drink from a spiritual **Rock** that followed them, and that Rock was Christ [[1 Corinthians 10:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4095}}` is a versatile word that moves from the literal act of imbibing to the heights of theological truth. It describes not only a physical necessity but also the spiritual acts of receiving eternal life, partaking in Christ's atoning work, and submitting to the divine will. The word **pínō** powerfully illustrates how a common human action can serve as a vessel for understanding our relationship with God, our participation in His covenant, and the ultimate realities of salvation and judgment.
TRV