νῆστις

fasting, without food

Definition

The Greek noun νῆστις (nēstis) specifically denotes the state of having abstained from food, meaning 'fasting' or 'being without food.' In its two New Testament occurrences, it describes a physical condition of hunger, not the religious practice of fasting. In Matthew 15:32 and Mark 8:3, Jesus expresses compassion for the crowd who has been with him for three days and has 'nothing to eat' (οὐδὲ νηστεις). The word highlights their immediate, tangible need for nourishment after a prolonged period without food.

Biblical Usage

Νῆστις is used only twice in the New Testament, in parallel accounts of the same event in the Gospels of Matthew and Mark. In both Matthew 15:32 and Mark 8:3, Jesus uses the word to describe the physical state of the large crowd that has followed him. The context is one of practical compassion, where Jesus notes their hunger ('they have been with me now three days and have nothing to eat') as the reason for performing the miracle of feeding the multitude. It is not used in contexts discussing voluntary religious fasting.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek verb νήθω (nēthō), meaning 'to spin' or possibly connected to an older root meaning 'to not eat.' The word νῆστις itself is an adjective used substantively (as a noun) to mean 'one who is fasting' or 'hungry.' Its core meaning is the simple, physical state of having an empty stomach, which is consistent with its New Testament usage.

Semantic Range

While the word itself describes a simple physical state, its use in the Gospels is theologically significant. It highlights Jesus' attentiveness to human physical need and his compassion (σπλαγχνίζομαι, splanchnizomai) as a motivator for miraculous provision. Understanding that νῆστis refers to their actual hunger, not a spiritual discipline, underscores the holistic nature of Jesus' ministry—caring for both body and soul. This sets the stage for the miracle that follows, which points to his identity as the provider and sustainer.

In the Greco-Roman and Jewish world, fasting (νηστεία, nēsteia) was a common religious practice for repentance, mourning, or seeking God. However, νῆστις in these passages does not refer to this voluntary practice. Instead, it describes involuntary hunger due to a lack of available food. The crowd's condition resulted from their eagerness to be with Jesus, even at the cost of physical comfort, which underscores his compelling draw and their need.

νηστεία (nēsteia, G3521) — Refers to the voluntary religious practice or discipline of fasting, not the physical state of hunger. ἄσιτος (asitos, G777) — Also means 'without food,' used in Acts 27:33 to describe going a long time without eating.

Word Details

Scripture References