Strong’s G4188: A noun derived from the root πίνω (to drink), meaning drink or beverage. In New Testament usage, it carries both literal and spiritual significance, particularly in Paul’s writings about spiritual sustenance and in discussions of ceremonial practices.

U- Unveiling the Word

Πόμα is a fundamental term for drink or beverage in Koine Greek. In the New Testament, it appears in contexts that bridge physical and spiritual nourishment. Paul uses it to discuss both ordinary sustenance and spiritual drink, particularly in reference to the Israelites drinking from the spiritual rock in the wilderness. Early church fathers expanded on this dual meaning, using πόμα in discussions of both the Eucharist and spiritual nourishment from Christ. Today, it reminds us of both physical provision and spiritual sustenance in Christ.

N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πόμα, poma, POH-mah
• Detailed pronunciation: POH-mah (stress on first syllable)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• Root: πίνω (pinō) – verb meaning “to drink”
• -μα (-ma) – nominal suffix indicating result of action
• Forms the concrete noun for “drink” from the action of drinking

D – Defining Meanings

• Drink or beverage
• Liquid for consumption
• That which is drunk

Translation Options:

• “Drink” – most direct and common translation
• “Beverage” – more formal equivalent
• “Liquid refreshment” – captures the refreshing aspect implied in some contexts

E – Exploring Similar Words

• ποτήριον (potērion, po-TAY-ree-on) – cup, drinking vessel – See G4221
• πότος (potos, POH-tos) – drinking bout, carousing – See G4224
• πόσις (posis, POH-sis) – act of drinking – See G4213

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Morphological Features:

• Gender: Neuter
• Number: Singular/Plural
• Case: All cases possible
• Declension: 3rd declension

Example morphological changes:

• Nominative Singular: πόμα
• Genitive Singular: πόματος
• Dative Singular: πόματι
• Accusative Singular: πόμα

Cross-references:

• Related verb: πίνω (to drink)
• Related participle: πίνων (drinking)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes both literal and metaphorical uses of πόμα. Thayer’s notes its connection to basic sustenance and ritual practices. LSJ documents extensive classical usage in medical and dietary contexts. Vine’s highlights its spiritual applications. Strong’s connects it to the root πίνω. LEH notes Septuagint usage in both mundane and sacred contexts. Moulton and Milligan cite papyri showing common everyday usage.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
1 Corinthians 10:4: “And did all drink the same spiritual [πόμα] drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.”

Additional References:
Hebrews 9:10

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Πόμα bridges the physical and spiritual aspects of nourishment in Scripture. Paul’s use of the term to describe the spiritual drink from Christ the Rock shows how God provides both physical and spiritual refreshment. This word reminds us that just as we need physical drink to survive, we need the living water of Christ for spiritual life. It proclaims that Jesus is both the source and substance of our spiritual sustenance.

D – Did You Know?

1. The word was commonly used in ancient medical texts discussing proper diet and health.
2. Early Christian liturgical texts used πόμα in reference to the wine of the Eucharist.
3. The term influenced early Christian art depicting the “living water” of Christ.

Strong’s G4188: A noun derived from the root πίνω (to drink), meaning drink or beverage. In New Testament usage, it carries both literal and spiritual significance, particularly in Paul’s writings about spiritual sustenance and in discussions of ceremonial practices.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: drink, beverage, sustenance, spiritual nourishment, Pauline epistles, wilderness wanderings, Christ as Rock, liturgical elements, basic needs, metaphorical language​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​