καθημερινός

daily

Definition

The adjective καθημερινός means 'daily' or 'day-by-day,' describing something that occurs each day or is routine. In its sole New Testament occurrence in Acts 6:1, it modifies the noun 'distribution' (διακονία), referring to the daily provision of food for widows in the early church. This usage emphasizes the regular, ongoing nature of the charitable work. While other Greek words like ἐφήμερος can also mean 'daily,' καθημερινός specifically highlights the repetitive, everyday character of an action or need.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Acts 6:1, within the context of the early Jerusalem church's administration. It describes the 'daily distribution' of food, highlighting a practical, recurring need in the community. The term underscores the organized, continual care for vulnerable members (Hellenistic widows) as the church grew.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek phrase κατὰ ἡμέραν (kata hēmeran), meaning 'according to the day' or 'day by day.' It is a compound adjective formed from κατά (kata, 'according to') and ἡμέρα (hēmera, 'day'), with the suffix -ινός making it an adjective. Its formation directly conveys the sense of something pertaining to each day.

Semantic Range

While a practical term, its use in Acts 6:1 theologically underscores the importance of consistent, equitable care within the Christian community. The 'daily distribution' was a tangible expression of love and unity, so vital that its mismanagement threatened church harmony and required the appointment of deacons. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting how the early church institutionalized daily compassion as a core ministry.

In the Greco-Roman world, daily distributions of food or funds (like the Roman grain dole) were common civic practices for supporting the poor or specific groups. The early church's 'daily distribution' for widows mirrored this cultural pattern but was driven by Jewish and Christian teachings on charity (e.g., Deuteronomy 14:29). Widows, often without economic support, were a recognized group in need of daily sustenance.

ἐφήμερος (ephēmeros, G2184) — emphasizes something lasting only for a day or being short-lived, whereas καθημερινός focuses on daily recurrence. καθ’ ἡμέραν (kath' hēmeran) — an adverbial phrase meaning 'daily,' used more frequently in the NT (e.g., Luke 11:3), while καθημερινός is the adjectival form.

Word Details

Scripture References