βρῶσις

eating, food, a meal, rust

Definition

The Greek word βρῶσις (brōsis) carries three primary meanings in the New Testament. First, it refers to the abstract act of eating or consumption, as when Jesus says, 'I have food to eat that you do not know about' (John 4:32). Second, it denotes the concrete substance of food or a meal, such as the 'food that perishes' contrasted with the eternal life offered by Christ (John 6:27). Third, in a metaphorical and vivid sense, it describes rust or corrosion that 'consumes' or 'eats away' at material treasures stored on earth (Matthew 6:19-20).

Biblical Usage

βρῶσις is used 10 times across the Gospels and Pauline epistles. In John's Gospel, it primarily refers to physical or spiritual sustenance (John 4:32, 6:27, 6:55). In the Synoptic Gospels, it appears only in Matthew with the unique meaning of 'rust' (Matthew 6:19-20). Paul uses it to discuss Christian liberty regarding food (1 Corinthians 8:4) and to contrast the kingdom of God with mere physical consumption (Romans 14:17). The word also appears in a agricultural metaphor about God providing seed for sowing and 'food for your eating' (2 Corinthians 9:10).

Etymology

Derived from the verb βιβρώσκω (bibrōskō), meaning 'to eat' or 'to devour.' It is a noun of action (-σις suffix) related to eating. The root connects to the idea of consumption, which explains its semantic range from the literal act of eating, to the food itself, and finally to the destructive 'eating' action of rust.

Semantic Range

βρῶσις is theologically significant as it highlights a key spiritual contrast. Jesus uses it to redirect focus from perishable physical food to the eternal, spiritual nourishment He provides (John 6:27). Paul explicitly states the kingdom of God is not a matter of 'eating and drinking' (βρῶσις) but of righteousness, peace, and joy (Romans 14:17), challenging legalistic or materialistic views of faith. Understanding this word enriches reading by clarifying when biblical authors are discussing physical sustenance versus spiritual realities.

In the ancient world, food security was a constant concern, making discussions of 'eating' deeply practical. The metaphorical use for 'rust' (Matthew 6:19-20) would resonate in a culture familiar with the corrosion of metal coins and treasures, serving as a powerful image for the impermanence of material wealth compared to eternal treasures in heaven.

τροφή (trophē, G5160) — emphasizes nourishment or sustenance, often for growth. ἔδεσμα (edesma, G1033) — a general term for something eaten, food. βρῶμα (brōma, G1033) — the more common concrete term for food, what is eaten.

Word Details

Scripture References