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 verb `{{G4095}}` (πίνω, *pínō*) fundamentally signifies "to drink" or "to imbibe." While the provided definition notes it as a prolonged form used as an alternate in certain tenses, its core semantic range remains consistent with the basic act of consuming liquid. This action can be understood in both a literal and a figurative sense within the biblical text. Literally, it refers to the physical act of quenching thirst or partaking in a meal. Figuratively, it extends to the idea of receiving, experiencing, or participating in something deeply, often with spiritual or existential implications. The simplicity of its root meaning belies the profound theological depths it can convey in various contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb `{{G4095}}` appears frequently throughout the New Testament, illustrating a range of human experiences and divine interactions.
1. **Literal Sustenance:** Most commonly, *pínō* describes the physical act of drinking water or wine for sustenance or refreshment. For example, Jesus asks for a drink at Jacob's well in Samaria [[John 4:7]], highlighting His humanity and the basic need for water. Similarly, the disciples are often depicted drinking with Jesus at meals [[Matthew 26:29]].
2. **Feasting and Fellowship:** The act of drinking is central to shared meals and celebrations, symbolizing fellowship and community. The wedding at Cana, where Jesus turns water into wine, culminates in the guests drinking the miraculous provision [[John 2:8-10]]. The Last Supper, where Jesus institutes the new covenant through the cup, is a profound instance of communal drinking [[Matthew 26:27-28]].
3. **The "Cup" of Suffering or Destiny:** A powerful figurative use of *pínō* is found in Jesus' metaphor of "drinking the cup." This refers not to a physical beverage but to the acceptance of a divinely appointed destiny, particularly one involving suffering or judgment. Jesus prays in Gethsemane, "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet not as I will, but as you will" [[Matthew 26:39]]. Here, "drinking the cup" signifies His willingness to endure the atoning suffering of the cross. Similarly, Jesus asks James and John if they are able to "drink the cup that I am to drink" [[Matthew 20:22]], referring to participating in His suffering and destiny.
4. **Spiritual Imbibing:** In a highly significant spiritual application, *pínō* is used to describe the reception of spiritual life or nourishment. Jesus declares, "Whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again" [[John 4:14]], referring to the living water of the Holy Spirit. Even more profoundly, in His discourse on the Bread of Life, Jesus states, "Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life" [[John 6:54]]. This is a metaphorical, yet deeply real, call to spiritual union and participation in Christ's atoning sacrifice, essential for salvation and eternal life. Paul also uses the concept in the context of the Holy Spirit, stating, "For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body... and all were made to drink of one Spirit" [[1 Corinthians 12:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{G4095}}` (πίνω) often intersects with other significant biblical words and concepts:
* **Thirst (`{{G1372}}`, διψάω):** The opposite of drinking, highlighting a fundamental human need that *pínō* satisfies. The spiritual longing for God is often expressed as thirst.
* **Water (`{{G5204}}`, ὕδωρ):** The primary substance consumed, often a symbol of purification, life, and the Holy Spirit.
* **Wine (`{{G3631}}`, οἶνος):** A common drink, frequently associated with joy, celebration, and in the New Testament, with the blood of the new covenant.
* **Eat (`{{G5315}}`, ἐσθίω):** Often paired with *pínō* in the context of meals, signifying complete sustenance and fellowship. The phrase "eating and drinking" is a common idiom for daily life or communal activity.
* **Cup (`{{G4221}}`, ποτήριον):** The vessel from which one drinks, which takes on immense symbolic weight, representing destiny, suffering, or blessing.
* **Living Water (`{{G2198}}`, ζάω + `{{G5204}}`, ὕδωρ):** A specific theological concept in John's Gospel, representing the life-giving Spirit of God available through Christ.
* **Blood (`{{G129}}`, αἷμα):** In the context of the Eucharist, "drinking the blood" refers to participation in Christ's atoning sacrifice and covenant.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4095}}` (πίνω) is profound and multifaceted:
1. **Human Need and Divine Provision:** The literal act of drinking underscores humanity's dependence on God for basic sustenance. Spiritually, it highlights our inherent thirst for God, which only He can satisfy through Christ and the Holy Spirit [[John 4:13-14]].
2. **Covenant and Communion:** The act of drinking, particularly wine, is central to the institution of the Lord's Supper. Drinking the cup represents participation in the New Covenant established by Christ's blood [[1 Corinthians 11:25]]. It signifies communion with Christ and with fellow believers, uniting them in His sacrifice and resurrection.
3. **Identification with Christ's Suffering:** Jesus' willingness to "drink the cup" of suffering reveals His obedience to the Father's will and His identification with humanity's fallen state, taking on the judgment due to sin. For believers, being able to "drink His cup" means a willingness to share in His sufferings for the sake of the Gospel [[Philippians 3:10]].
4. **Spiritual Life and Transformation:** The figurative "drinking" of Christ's blood and the Holy Spirit is essential for spiritual life. It signifies a deep, internal reception of Christ's saving work and the indwelling presence of the Spirit, leading to eternal life and spiritual unity within the body of Christ.
5. **Hospitality and Inclusivity:** The act of offering a drink, even a cup of cold water, is presented as an act of hospitality and righteousness that will be rewarded [[Matthew 10:42]]. Jesus' own willingness to eat and drink with sinners demonstrated His radical inclusivity and mission to save the lost.
### Summary
The Greek verb `{{G4095}}` (πίνω), "to drink" or "to imbibe," carries significant literal and figurative weight in the New Testament. While primarily denoting the physical act of consuming liquid for sustenance or celebration, its semantic range extends to profound spiritual realities. It is central to understanding the human need for divine provision, both physical and spiritual. Theologically, *pínō* is foundational to concepts of covenant and communion, particularly in the Lord's Supper where believers "drink" the blood of the New Covenant, signifying their participation in Christ's atoning sacrifice. Furthermore, it powerfully conveys the idea of receiving spiritual life and nourishment through Christ as the source of "living water" and the indwelling Holy Spirit. The metaphor of "drinking the cup" also illuminates Christ's willing embrace of suffering and His call for discipleship that involves sharing in His destiny. Thus, *pínō* is far more than a simple action; it is a rich verb that encapsulates fundamental aspects of human existence, divine provision, and spiritual transformation.
TRV