Lexical Summary psómizó: To feed, to give a morsel Original Word: ψωμίζω Strong's Exhaustive Concordance to feed with morselsFrom the base of psomion; to supply with bits, i.e. (generally) to nourish -- (bestow to) feed. see GREEK psomion NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom psómion Definition to feed with morsels NASB Translation feed (2), give (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 5595: ψωμίζωψωμίζω; 1 aorist ἐψώμισά; (ψωμός, a bit, a morsel; see ψσομιον); a. to feed by putting a bit or crumb (of food) into the mouth (of infants, the young of animals, etc.): τινα τίνι (Aristophanes, Aristotle, Plutarch, Geoponica, Artemidorus Daldianus, oneir. 5, 62; Porphyry, Jamblichus). b. universally, to feed, nourish (the Sept. for הֶאֱכִיל) (Winer's Grammar, § 2, 1 b.): τινα, Romans 12:20; Clement of Rome, 1 Cor. 55, 2 [ET]; with the accusative of the thing, to give a thing to feed someone, feed out to (Vulg. distribuo in cibos pauperun (A. V. bestow ... to feed the poor)): 1 Corinthians 13:3; in the O. T. τινα τί, Sir. 15:3; Wis. 16:20; Numbers 11:4; Deuteronomy 32:13; Psalm 79:6 Strong’s 5595 centers on the deliberate act of nourishing someone with small portions of food, emphasizing personal, intentional care rather than mass distribution. The verb depicts the giver’s hand extending a morsel to another mouth—an image that communicates relationship, humility, and focused compassion. Scriptural Occurrences 1. 1 Corinthians 13:3 places the act at the pinnacle of philanthropy: “If I give all I possess to the poor … but have not love, I gain nothing.” Here, feeding becomes a test case that exposes the heart motive behind outward generosity. Theology of Feeding Others Feeding with morsels displays covenant loyalty, mirrors God’s providence, and anticipates the Messianic banquet. Scripture consistently portrays the Lord as One who “gives food to all flesh” (Psalm 136:25). Believers imitate that divine generosity in both ordinary hospitality and extraordinary mercy. Historical and Cultural Setting First–century Mediterranean society lacked state welfare. Daily bread often depended on patronage and neighborly aid. Hand-to-mouth feeding signified solidarity within the house-church and served as evangelistic witness to a watching world, contrasting sharply with the Greco-Roman patronage system that rewarded benefactors with honor. Relationship to Other Greek Verbs for Feeding Whereas βόσκω highlights grazing animals and τρέφω stresses general nourishment, 5595 narrows in on fragmentary distribution—piece after piece. The nuance underscores personal attention and sacrifice, vital for interpreting both Pauline usages. Christological and Typological Significance Jesus’ own ministry embodies this verb conceptually when He breaks loaves and personally hands them to His disciples for the crowds (Matthew 14:19). The Last Supper intensifies the symbolism as He offers bread that signifies His body, revealing that true sustenance flows from sacrificial love. Practical Ministry Application • Benevolence: Local congregations model gospel compassion through food pantries, meal trains, and table fellowship, fulfilling the spirit of Romans 12:20. Doctrinal Implications The verb supports doctrines of common grace and sanctification. Common grace: God provides food even for His enemies; the redeemed replicate that grace. Sanctification: routinely handing out morsels forms Christlike character, training believers to prefer others above themselves. Related Passages Proverbs 25:21; Deuteronomy 15:7–11; Isaiah 58:7; Matthew 5:44; Luke 14:13–14; Galatians 6:10; Hebrews 13:2; James 2:15–17; 1 John 3:17–18. Summary Strong’s 5595 captures a humble yet potent picture of Christian love: the steady, hand-to-mouth giving of sustenance that points to the ultimate Giver. Whether offered to friend, stranger, or foe, each morsel preaches the gospel, demonstrating that love is the indispensable ingredient in every act of service. Englishman's Concordance Romans 12:20 V-PMA-2SGRK: ἐχθρός σου ψώμιζε αὐτόν ἐὰν NAS: IS HUNGRY, FEED HIM, AND IF KJV: enemy hunger, feed him; if INT: enemy of you feed him if 1 Corinthians 13:3 V-ASA-1S Strong's Greek 5595 |
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