Introduction

Understanding Greek words like ἐπισιτισμός (episitismos) is crucial for Biblical studies, as it provides deeper insight into the cultural and practical aspects of the New Testament period. This noun, which generally means “provision” or “supplying of food,” is particularly significant for interpreting passages where the logistics of daily life, survival, and military campaigns are discussed. In ancient Greek culture, the concept of provisioning was vital, as it related not only to personal sustenance but also to the broader context of managing resources during times of travel, war, or crisis.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐπισιτισμός (episitismos) [eh-pee-see-tee-SMOS]
• Etymology root words and their meanings: Derived from ἐπι (epi, “upon, for”) and σιτισμός (sitismos, “a feeding” or “provision of food”).
• Part of Speech: Noun (Masculine); it refers to the act or process of providing food or provisions.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Provision of food or supplies
• Foraging or obtaining provisions, often for a group or during a journey or military campaign

Similar Words: σῖτος (sitos) [SEE-tos], meaning “grain” or “food.” While σῖτος focuses specifically on the substance or food item itself (particularly grains), ἐπισιτισμός refers more broadly to the act of providing or obtaining such food, especially in the context of logistics or necessity.

Further Insights: ἐπισιτισμός is a masculine noun and follows the second declension pattern in Greek. Below is a declension table for ἐπισιτισμός:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Describes ἐπισιτισμός as “a supplying of provisions,” particularly in contexts where there is a need to gather or distribute food or supplies for a group or journey. The term carries a sense of organization and planning related to food logistics.
• Thayers: Defines ἐπισιτισμός as “the provisioning of food,” especially in the context of military or travel needs. Thayer’s lexicon emphasizes the practical aspect of gathering necessary supplies for sustenance.
• Vines: Highlights ἐπισιτισμός as “provisioning,” often associated with the preparation for a journey or campaign. It stresses the proactive aspect of securing sustenance.
• LSJ: Offers a broader definition, describing ἐπισιτισμός as “getting food or provision,” both in literal and figurative senses. It can apply to both the individual act of gathering food and the more formalized process of provisioning an army or group.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines ἐπισιτισμός as “provision” and “a feeding,” highlighting its usage in contexts where there is a need to secure food or supplies, particularly in times of travel or conflict.

Related Scripture References

• Luke 9:12 – “Now the day began to wear away, and the twelve came and said to him, ‘Send the crowd away to go into the surrounding villages and countryside to find lodging and get provisions (ἐπισιτισμόν), for we are here in a desolate place.'”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπισιτισμός (G1979)

The Greek noun ἐπισιτισμός (episitismos) primarily refers to the act of providing or obtaining food and supplies, particularly in contexts involving travel, war, or preparation for a journey. This term was significant in both ancient Greek literature and the New Testament era for describing logistics related to food and sustenance. Understanding its usage in the broader Greco-Roman world and its appearances in the Septuagint and classical texts provides valuable insights into the practical concerns of ancient societies, such as planning, survival, and provisioning.

Did You Know?

The term ἐπισιτισμός is closely related to the concept of foraging and was a critical aspect of military strategy in ancient times. Armies often relied on local provisioning (ἐπισιτισμός) to sustain themselves during long campaigns, which could make or break a military expedition. This highlights the strategic importance of logistics, as without proper ἐπισιτισμός, even the mightiest of forces could falter. In a spiritual sense, the word can also remind us of the importance of being prepared and having sufficient provisions, both physically and spiritually, to face challenges.