### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **potízō**, represented by `{{G4222}}`, means **to furnish drink, irrigate**. It appears 23 times across 15 unique verses in the Bible. Its core meaning involves the act of giving a drink or watering, but it is also used to describe the act of feeding and is applied in significant figurative contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its literal sense, `{{G4222}}` is used to describe fundamental acts of care and hospitality. This includes giving drink to the thirsty, which is identified as a righteous act [[Matthew 25:35]], and the failure to do so is condemned [[Matthew 25:42]]. The act extends even to one's enemies, as believers are instructed, "if he thirst, give him drink" [[Romans 12:20]]. On a more agricultural note, it is used for watering animals, such as an ox `{{G1016}}` or ass `{{G3688}}` [[Luke 13:15]]. Figuratively, the word illustrates ministerial roles, as when Paul states, "I have planted, Apollos watered" [[1 Corinthians 3:6]], and it is also used to describe Babylon making nations drink the wine of wrath [[Revelation 14:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{G4222}}` is used:
* `{{G5452}}` **phyteúō** (to set out in the earth, i.e. implant): This word for "plant" is used in direct parallel with "water" to describe complementary roles in ministry, where one plants the seed and another waters it [[1 Corinthians 3:6-8]].
* `{{G1372}}` **dipsáō** (to thirst for): This term describes the state of need that `{{G4222}}` remedies. The act of giving a drink is a direct response to someone who is thirsty ([[Matthew 25:35]], [[Romans 12:20]]).
* `{{G1051}}` **gála** (milk): This word is used as the object of `{{G4222}}` in a key figurative passage about spiritual immaturity, where Paul explains, "I have fed you with milk" [[1 Corinthians 3:2]], meaning he gave them foundational teachings to drink.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4222}}` is evident in its application to spiritual truths.
* **Christian Service:** Providing a drink is a benchmark for Christian charity. Jesus states that giving drink to the thirsty is equivalent to giving it to Him [[Matthew 25:37]] and that even giving a disciple a cup of water will not go without a reward [[Matthew 10:42]].
* **Spiritual Nurturing:** Paul uses the word to describe the process of discipleship, where new believers are given **milk** `{{G1051}}` to drink, as they are not yet ready for solid **meat** `{{G1033}}` [[1 Corinthians 3:2]]. This illustrates a tender, nurturing role in ministry.
* **Collaborative Ministry:** The analogy of one planting and another watering highlights that different ministers have different roles, but it is ultimately God who **giveth the increase** `{{G837}}` [[1 Corinthians 3:7]].
* **Spiritual Reality:** The word is used to describe the universal Christian experience of being "all made to drink into one Spirit," signifying a shared source of spiritual life and unity in the body of Christ [[1 Corinthians 12:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4222}}` moves from a simple, physical action to a metaphor for significant spiritual realities. It encompasses the literal act of giving water to the thirsty, the agricultural process of irrigating plants, and the theological concepts of Christian charity, spiritual discipleship, and divine judgment. The word demonstrates how a basic human act of providing a drink is elevated in Scripture to represent our duty to one another and the essential work of ministry in the life of the church.
TRV