δόμα

a gift

Definition

The Greek noun δόμα (doma) refers to a gift or present, often with a focus on the act of giving and the gift's inherent value. In the New Testament, it consistently describes gifts given by God, such as the Holy Spirit (Luke 11:13) and good gifts in general (Matthew 7:11). In Ephesians 4:8, it is used in a quotation from Psalm 68:18 to describe the 'gifts' of people—specifically, the gifted individuals Christ gives to the church. A unique usage appears in Philippians 4:17, where Paul speaks of the Philippians' financial support as a 'gift' that accrues spiritual benefit to their account.

Biblical Usage

δόμα is used four times in the New Testament, primarily in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke within Jesus' teaching about God's generosity as a Father (Matthew 7:11, Luke 11:13). It appears once in a significant theological context in Ephesians 4:8, interpreting a Psalm to describe Christ giving gifted people to the church. Finally, it is used in a personal, financial context in Philippians 4:17, referring to the material support sent to Paul.

Etymology

Derived from the verb δίδωμι (didōmi, G1325), meaning 'to give.' δόμα is a noun form that emphasizes the concrete result or object of the giving action. It is related to other gift-words like δωρεά (dōrea, G1431), but δόμα can more specifically denote the thing given.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it highlights God's nature as a generous giver of good things, especially the Holy Spirit. In Ephesians 4:8, it is central to understanding Christ's post-ascension work of building the church through spiritually gifted people. The term connects divine generosity with the practical, mutual giving within the Christian community, as seen in Philippians 4:17.

In the Greco-Roman world, gift-giving was embedded in systems of reciprocity and social obligation. A 'δόμα' could imply a sense of expected return or honor. The New Testament usage, especially by Jesus, transforms this concept, presenting God's gifts as freely given from paternal love, not as part of a transactional relationship.

δωρεά (dōrea, G1431) — emphasizes the freeness and graciousness of a gift. χάρισμα (charisma, G5486) — a gift of grace, often a spiritual endowment. δόσις (dosis, G1394) — focuses more on the act of giving itself.

Word Details

Scripture References