### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ψωμίζω (psōmízō), Strong's number `{{G5595}}`, derives from the noun ψωμίον (psōmíon, `{{G5594}}`), which means "a morsel," "a bit of food," or "a crumb." Therefore, the core meaning of ψωμίζω is "to supply with bits" or "to feed with morsels." This implies a direct, often personal act of providing sustenance, typically in small, manageable portions. Its semantic range extends to the more general sense of "to nourish" or "to feed," highlighting the fundamental act of providing food for sustenance. The connection to "morsels" suggests a deliberate, perhaps even tender, act of feeding, rather than a large-scale provision.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb ψωμίζω appears in only two passages in the New Testament, both of which offer significant insights into its usage and theological implications:
1. **Romans 12:20**: "Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head."
In this context, ψωμίζω is used within Paul's exhortation for believers to live out practical love and reconciliation. The command to "feed" (ψωμίζω) one's hungry enemy is a powerful directive to overcome evil with good. It is a tangible, physical act of providing for the basic needs of someone who is hostile, demonstrating a radical form of Christian charity that transcends natural animosity. The use of ψωμίζω here underscores the direct, personal nature of this charitable act.
2. **1 Corinthians 13:3**: "And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing."
Here, Paul employs ψωμίζω in a hypothetical, hyperbolic statement to emphasize the absolute preeminence of *agape* (ἀγάπη, `{{G26}}`) love. "Though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor" (literally, "and if I feed all my possessions") refers to an extreme act of almsgiving, even to the point of impoverishing oneself to provide for others. The verb ψωμίζω again highlights the act of providing sustenance. However, the profound lesson is that even such a monumental act of charity, if performed without *agape* love, is utterly profitless in God's eyes. This verse powerfully differentiates between outward acts of giving and the internal, spiritual motivation behind them.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **ψωμίον (psōmíon, `{{G5594}}`):** The direct noun from which ψωμίζω is derived, meaning "morsel" or "crumb." This reinforces the idea of feeding with small, individual portions.
* **τρέφω (trephō, `{{G5142}}`):** A more general verb meaning "to nourish," "to bring up," or "to rear." While related to providing sustenance, ψωμίζω specifically focuses on the act of feeding with food, often in a direct, hands-on manner.
* **βοσκω (boskō, `{{G1006}}`):** "To feed" (especially animals), "to pasture." Often used in the context of shepherding.
* **δίδωμι (didōmi, `{{G1325}}`):** The general verb "to give." While ψωμίζω is a form of giving, it is more specific, denoting the giving of food for nourishment.
* **ἀγάπη (agapē, `{{G26}}`):** Love. Crucially linked to 1 Corinthians 13:3, where it is presented as the indispensable motive for any act of charity, including feeding the poor.
* **φιλοξενία (philoxenia, `{{G5381}}`):** Hospitality. The act of feeding the hungry is a fundamental component of biblical hospitality, which often extends to strangers and those in need.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ψωμίζω is profound, particularly in its limited yet impactful occurrences:
1. **Practical Expression of Love:** The word underscores the biblical emphasis on love as a practical, tangible act rather than mere sentiment. In Romans 12:20, feeding an enemy becomes a radical demonstration of Christ-like love that seeks reconciliation and overcomes evil. This embodies the teaching of Jesus to love one's enemies [[Matthew 5:44]].
2. **Motive Over Act:** 1 Corinthians 13:3 delivers a critical theological insight: the *motive* behind an action is paramount. Even the most extreme acts of charity, such as giving away all possessions to feed the poor, are rendered meaningless in God's eyes if they are not born out of genuine *agape* love. This highlights that Christian giving is not merely about external performance but about an internal disposition of selfless love for God and neighbor.
3. **Compassion and Justice:** The act of feeding the hungry aligns with God's heart for the poor and vulnerable. While ψωμίζω is not extensively used, its presence in these key ethical passages reinforces the call for believers to engage in acts of compassion and social justice, meeting the basic needs of others.
4. **Imitation of Christ:** Jesus himself exemplified feeding the hungry, both physically (e.g., the feeding of the multitudes [[Matthew 14:13-21]]) and spiritually. While different Greek verbs are used for these acts, the principle of compassionate provision is central to His ministry.
### Summary
The Greek verb ψωμίζω (psōmízō, `{{G5595}}`) literally means "to feed with morsels" and generally "to nourish" or "to feed." Its two New Testament occurrences offer rich theological insights. In [[Romans 12:20]], it commands believers to "feed" their enemies, illustrating a radical, practical expression of love that overcomes evil. In [[1 Corinthians 13:3]], it is used in a powerful rhetorical statement, emphasizing that even the most extreme acts of charity, such as "feeding the poor" by giving away all possessions, are utterly worthless if they are not motivated by true *agape* love. Thus, ψωμίζω highlights both the importance of tangible acts of compassion in Christian ethics and, more profoundly, the indispensable role of pure, selfless love as the foundation and motive for all such acts. It serves as a reminder that God values the heart behind the deed above the deed itself.
TRV