The Greek word chórtasma, represented by G5527, translates to sustenance. Derived from χορτάζω, its definition includes forage or food. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse within the biblical text.
The single use of G5527 occurs in the historical account of a widespread crisis. During a time when a dearth G3042 and great G3173 affliction G2347 came over all the land G1093 of Egypt G125 and Chanaan G5477, the scripture records that "our fathers G3962 found no sustenance" Acts 7:11. This highlights a moment of profound need and desperation for the patriarchs.
Several related words clarify the context surrounding the lack of sustenance:
- G3042 limós (dearth, famine, hunger): This term, meaning "a scarcity of food," directly establishes the reason why sustenance was needed. It is often paired with other hardships, such as tribulation and distress Romans 8:35.
- G2347 thlîpsis (affliction, tribulation, trouble): Paired with the famine in the primary verse, this word emphasizes that the lack of sustenance was part of a broader "great affliction" Acts 7:11. It underscores the severe pressure and trouble experienced by the people.
- G2147 heurískō (to find): This word is central to the narrative's action. The statement that the fathers "found no" sustenance highlights the futility of their search and the severity of the famine Acts 7:11. The promise that those who seek will find stands in stark contrast to this moment of crisis Matthew 7:7.
The theological weight of G5527 is derived entirely from its singular, stark context.
- Human Dependence: The inability of the fathers to find sustenance underscores a state of complete physical need. The famine over both Egypt G125 and Chanaan G5477 illustrates a crisis beyond their control, pointing to a reliance on a source outside of themselves Acts 7:11.
- Affliction and Famine: The term is explicitly linked with "great affliction" G2347. This pairing demonstrates how physical deprivation like famine G3042 is a component of wider biblical themes of tribulation and suffering (Romans 8:35, Acts 7:11).
- The Futility of Search: In this instance, the search for a basic necessity of life yields nothing. The declaration that "our fathers found G2147 no sustenance" serves as a powerful statement of desperation and emptiness during a critical moment in Israel's history Acts 7:11.
In summary, G5527 chórtasma is a precise term for sustenance or food. Its sole appearance in scripture is not incidental but marks a pivotal moment of crisis. Used to describe the complete lack of food during a great dearth G3042 and affliction G2347 in Egypt G125 and Chanaan G5477, it powerfully conveys the theme of physical desperation and the dependence of the patriarchs when they could find no relief Acts 7:11.
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