from a derivative of the alternate of πίνω; to furnish drink, irrigate:--give (make) to drink, feed, water.
Transliteration:potízō
Pronunciation:pot-id'-zo
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G4222 (ποτίζω, *potízō*) derives from a form related to πίνω (*pinō*), meaning "to drink." At its core, potízō signifies the act of "furnishing drink" or "causing to drink." This encompasses both the literal act of providing water to individuals, animals, or plants (to irrigate), and, significantly, a metaphorical extension into the spiritual realm. The semantic range thus covers physical sustenance and agricultural practices, as well as the impartation of spiritual nourishment and the work of the Holy Spirit. It implies an active role of the one providing the drink, ensuring life, growth, and refreshment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term G4222 appears in the New Testament with both its literal and metaphorical senses.
Literally, it describes acts of compassion and provision. In the parable of the sheep and the goats, Jesus commends those who "gave me something to drink" when he was thirsty ([[Matthew 25:35]]), and condemns those who did not ([[Matthew 25:42]]). This highlights potízō as a fundamental act of mercy and hospitality, indicative of genuine faith. Similarly, giving "a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is a disciple" is promised a reward ([[Matthew 10:42]]), underscoring the value of even the simplest act of care. The word is also used in a literal sense concerning animals, as when Jesus speaks of leading an ox or donkey "to water" on the Sabbath ([[Luke 13:15]]).
Metaphorically, potízō is profoundly used by the Apostle Paul to describe spiritual nourishment and growth within the early Christian community. In 1 Corinthians, Paul states, "I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth" ([[1 Corinthians 3:6]]). Here, "watered" (ἐπότισεν, *epótisen*) refers to the ongoing ministry of teaching and discipleship that provides spiritual sustenance, allowing believers to mature. He reiterates this concept in the following verse: "So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth" ([[1 Corinthians 3:7]]). This illustrates that human effort in ministry is crucial, but ultimate efficacy and growth come from God. Paul also uses potízō to speak of the unifying work of the Holy Spirit, declaring that "we were all made to drink of one Spirit" ([[1 Corinthians 12:13]]). This powerful image conveys the Holy Spirit as the essential life-giving "drink" that unites believers into one body, providing spiritual vitality and common identity.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is πίνω (*pinō*, G4095), the more general verb "to drink," from which potízō is derived, emphasizing the act of causing someone to drink. Another closely related term is ὕδωρ (*hydōr*, G5204), "water," the substance that is given.
Concepts associated with potízō include:
* **Nourishment and Sustenance:** Both physical (food, drink) and spiritual (teaching, the Holy Spirit).
* **Refreshment:** Alleviating thirst, bringing new life or vigor.
* **Growth:** Particularly in the spiritual sense, as seen in Paul's agricultural metaphor.
* **Hospitality and Mercy:** Providing for the needs of others, especially the vulnerable.
* **The Holy Spirit:** Often depicted as "living water" or the source of spiritual drink, as in [[John 7:37-39]] (though these verses use πίνω, the concept aligns with potízō's meaning of spiritual impartation).
* **Ministry and Discipleship:** The active role of believers in nurturing others in faith.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of G4222 is multi-faceted. Firstly, it underscores God's providential care, both physically and spiritually. God is the ultimate source of all sustenance and growth. Secondly, it highlights the essential role of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer and the church. Being "made to drink of one Spirit" ([[1 Corinthians 12:13]]) speaks to the Spirit's unifying, life-giving, and empowering work, integrating individuals into the body of Christ and sustaining their spiritual life.
Thirdly, potízō emphasizes the responsibility of believers to engage in acts of mercy and spiritual ministry. Providing drink to the thirsty, whether literally or metaphorically, is presented as a tangible expression of love for Christ and a participation in His redemptive work. It is a reminder that while God gives the growth, human agents are called to "water" (nurture) the spiritual seeds planted. This word thus connects the mundane act of giving water to profound theological truths about divine provision, spiritual unity, and active Christian service.
### Summary
G4222 (ποτίζω, *potízō*) is a versatile Greek verb meaning "to furnish drink" or "to irrigate." Its literal usage in the New Testament emphasizes acts of compassion and hospitality, such as giving water to the thirsty ([[Matthew 25:35]]). More profoundly, potízō is employed metaphorically to describe the impartation of spiritual nourishment and the work of the Holy Spirit. Paul uses it to illustrate the role of ministers in nurturing believers ("Apollos watered," [[1 Corinthians 3:6]]) and to portray the unifying, life-giving experience of being filled with the Spirit ([[1 Corinthians 12:13]]). The word thus encapsulates divine provision, the vital role of the Holy Spirit in spiritual growth, and the call for believers to actively participate in both physical acts of mercy and spiritual discipleship, all contributing to the flourishing of God's people.
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