κρέας

flesh, kinds of flesh

Definition

The Greek word κρέας (kreas) specifically means 'flesh' in the sense of meat or animal flesh used for food. It does not refer to the human body or to the metaphorical 'flesh' (σάρξ, sarx) used in theological contexts. In the New Testament, it is used exclusively in discussions about food, particularly meat that may have been offered to idols. Its two occurrences (Romans 14:21, 1 Corinthians 8:13) both address the ethical consumption of meat in situations where it might cause a fellow believer to stumble.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the New Testament, both times in epistles addressing Christian conduct. In Romans 14:21, Paul advises it is good not to eat meat (κρέας) or drink wine if it causes a brother to stumble. In 1 Corinthians 8:13, he states that if food (specifically meat, κρέας) causes his brother to stumble, he will never eat meat again. The usage is consistently ethical and communal, focusing on the practical application of love over personal liberty in matters of diet.

Etymology

Derived from the ancient Greek noun κρέας (kreas), meaning 'flesh' or 'meat.' It is a primary word with a stable meaning, related to the verb κρεάζω (kreazō), meaning 'to tear flesh.' Its meaning in Koine Greek remained specific to edible animal flesh, distinct from other words for 'flesh' like σάρξ (sarx).

Semantic Range

While the word itself is mundane, its usage is theologically significant. It appears in key passages about Christian freedom, conscience, and love. Understanding that κρέας specifically means 'meat' (not the theological concept of 'flesh') clarifies that Paul's instructions in Romans 14 and 1 Corinthians 8 are about practical, loving sacrifice in everyday matters like diet, not about battling sin nature. It highlights the principle of surrendering personal rights for the spiritual welfare of others.

In the first-century Greco-Roman world, much of the meat available in markets came from animals sacrificed in pagan temples. For new believers, especially those with a Jewish background or recent converts from paganism, eating such meat could be a serious issue of conscience and idolatry. Paul's use of κρέας directly addresses this specific cultural dilemma, where abstaining from meat was a tangible act of love and sensitivity, not just a dietary preference.

σάρξ (sarx, G4561) — Refers to the physical body, human nature, or the sinful earthly sphere; not specifically 'meat.' βρῶμα (brōma, G1033) — A general term for 'food' or 'that which is eaten,' which can include but is not limited to meat.

Word Details

Scripture References