### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun στόμαχος (stómachos, `{{G4751}}`) is derived from στόμα (stoma, `{{G4750}}`), meaning "mouth" or "opening." Consequently, its primary semantic range encompasses an "orifice" or "opening," specifically referring to the "gullet" or "esophagus," and by extension, the "stomach" itself. In classical Greek, the term could also denote the throat or even the "temper" or "spirit" as the seat of emotions like anger. However, in its sole New Testament occurrence, the meaning is strictly anatomical, referring to the digestive organ. The word thus signifies the physical organ responsible for digestion, emphasizing its function as an internal opening or receptacle.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term στόμαχος (stómachos, `{{G4751}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, found in Paul's first letter to Timothy: "No longer drink water exclusively, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments" [[1 Timothy 5:23]].
In this passage, Paul offers practical, pastoral counsel to Timothy regarding his physical health. Timothy, likely due to ascetic practices or the local water quality, was evidently suffering from recurrent stomach issues and general infirmity. Paul's advice to consume a small amount of wine, which in antiquity was often used for its medicinal properties (e.g., as an antiseptic or digestive aid) and was safer than contaminated water, is a direct and literal reference to the physical organ. This verse stands as a testament to the practical, holistic concern within the early Christian community, acknowledging that even spiritual leaders are subject to physical vulnerabilities and that prudent care for the body is not antithetical to devotion.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the root noun στόμα (stoma, `{{G4750}}`), "mouth," from which στόμαχος (stómachos, `{{G4751}}`) is derived, highlighting its meaning as an "opening" or "orifice." Conceptually, στόμαχος (stómachos, `{{G4751}}`) relates to the broader biblical understanding of the human body (σῶμα, sōma, `{{G4983}}`) and its physical needs and vulnerabilities. The context of [[1 Timothy 5:23]] also links it to terms related to sickness or weakness (e.g., ἀσθένεια, astheneia, `{{G769}}`, "weakness" or "sickness") and the practical aspects of health and well-being. While not directly synonymous, other terms for internal organs or physical ailments would fall into a similar semantic field, underscoring the New Testament's acknowledgment of the embodied human experience.
### Theological Significance
The singular mention of στόμαχος (stómachos, `{{G4751}}`) in [[1 Timothy 5:23]], though seemingly mundane, carries several layers of theological significance. First, it underscores the New Testament's holistic view of humanity, affirming that the physical body, while distinct from the spirit, is an integral part of God's creation and worthy of care. The body is presented as a temple of the Holy Spirit ([[1 Corinthians 6:19]]), and therefore, its well-being is not insignificant. Second, Paul's advice demonstrates a profound pastoral concern that extends beyond the purely spiritual to encompass the practical realities of daily life and physical health. It illustrates that effective ministry often requires a healthy minister, and that caring for one's physical needs is a legitimate aspect of stewardship. Finally, the passage subtly reminds believers that even apostles and spiritual leaders are fully human, subject to physical limitations and ailments, grounding the Christian faith in the realities of embodied existence rather than an ethereal detachment from the physical world.
### Summary
The Greek word στόμαχος (stómachos, `{{G4751}}`) refers to the physical stomach or gullet, deriving from the word for "mouth." Its sole biblical appearance in [[1 Timothy 5:23]] provides a literal and practical context, where Paul advises Timothy to use wine for his stomach ailments. This seemingly simple instruction carries significant theological weight, affirming the biblical emphasis on the holistic nature of humanity, the practical dimensions of pastoral care, and the recognition that physical well-being is a legitimate concern within the Christian life. It highlights that the embodied existence of believers, including their physical vulnerabilities, is acknowledged and addressed within the inspired Scriptures.
TRV