### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **trophḗ**, represented by `{{G5160}}`, refers to **nourishment**, either literally as food or figuratively as spiritual substance. It appears **16 times** across **16 unique verses** in the Bible. The term encompasses everything from basic sustenance and rations to the deeper truths required for spiritual maturity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its literal sense, `{{G5160}}` denotes physical food necessary for life. This is seen in the description of John the Baptist's diet of locusts and honey [[Matthew 3:4]] and in the practical act of the disciples going to a city to buy **meat** [[John 4:8]]. The word is used by Jesus to teach against anxiety, reminding followers that life is more than **meat** and the body more than raiment [[Matthew 6:25]]. It also signifies physical strengthening, as when Saul received **meat** and was strengthened [[Acts 9:19]]. In a figurative context, it is used to describe the responsibility of a faithful servant to provide **meat** in due season to the household [[Matthew 24:45]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of `{{G5160}}`:
* `{{G1051}}` **gála** (milk): This word for **milk** is used in direct contrast to `{{G5160}}` to differentiate between elementary spiritual principles and the substantial teaching needed for maturity [[Hebrews 5:12]].
* `{{G1742}}` **éndyma** (raiment): Meaning **apparel** or **clothing**, this term is frequently paired with `{{G5160}}` to cover the essential physical needs of life. Both are mentioned in Jesus's teaching on anxiety [[Matthew 6:25]].
* `{{G4731}}` **stereós** (strong): This adjective, meaning **solid** or **stable**, modifies **meat** to create the phrase "strong **meat**," which belongs to the spiritually mature, as opposed to the "milk" needed by infants in the faith [[Hebrews 5:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G5160}}` is demonstrated in its use across different teachings.
* **Divine Provision:** The word underscores God's role as provider. Paul speaks of God giving **food** and gladness as a witness to His goodness [[Acts 14:17]]. Jesus teaches that since life is more than **meat**, one should not worry, trusting in God's provision [[Luke 12:23]].
* **Spiritual Maturity:** The most prominent figurative use contrasts "milk" with "strong **meat**" `{{G5160}}`. This metaphor distinguishes between the foundational Christian doctrines suitable for new believers and the deeper, more complex truths that nourish the spiritually mature [[Hebrews 5:12]].
* **Sustenance for Service:** `{{G5160}}` can imply rations or wages, as when Jesus states that a workman is worthy of his **meat** [[Matthew 10:10]]. This connects physical provision to the value and support of ministry.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5160}}` is a versatile word that moves from the tangible to the theological. It can refer to the **daily** food for which one may be destitute [[James 2:15]] or the essential nourishment Paul urged sailors to take for their health [[Acts 27:34]]. At its most profound, it becomes the "strong **meat**" of advanced spiritual wisdom, essential for moving beyond the elementary principles of faith. Through this word, scripture illustrates both God's care for physical life and His call for believers to grow by consuming deeper spiritual truth.
TRV