πίνω

I drink, imbibe

Definition

The verb πίνω means 'to drink' in its most basic sense, referring to the physical consumption of liquids, such as water or wine (e.g., Matthew 10:42). In the New Testament, it frequently carries a figurative or symbolic meaning, representing the reception or experience of something, often divine. For instance, Jesus speaks of drinking 'the cup' as accepting the destiny of suffering (Matthew 20:22-23). It also describes partaking in spiritual realities, such as drinking from the 'living water' Christ offers (John 4:10-14) or drinking the wine of the new covenant (1 Corinthians 11:25-26).

Biblical Usage

πίνω is used 66 times across the New Testament, appearing in Gospels, Epistles, and Revelation. It describes ordinary drinking (Matthew 6:25, 31), the actions of John the Baptist and Jesus (Matthew 11:18-19), and is central to Last Supper narratives (1 Corinthians 11:25-29). A significant pattern is its use in metaphorical contexts concerning judgment (Revelation 14:10) or blessing (1 Corinthians 12:13). Revelation uses it vividly for consuming the 'wine' of God's wrath (Revelation 16:6).

Etymology

Derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *peh₃- ('to drink'), πίνω is a primary verb in Greek. It is cognate with Latin *bibo* and English 'imbibe.' Its meaning remained stable from classical through Koine Greek, consistently denoting the act of drinking, with its figurative extensions developing naturally within biblical and philosophical literature.

Semantic Range

πίνω is theologically significant as it connects physical sustenance with spiritual participation. It is essential to understanding the Eucharist, where drinking the cup signifies participation in the new covenant through Christ's blood (1 Corinthians 11:25). It also illustrates the concepts of receiving divine blessing (the Spirit, 1 Corinthians 12:13) and divine judgment (the cup of wrath, Revelation 14:10). Understanding this range enriches reading by highlighting how physical acts symbolize deeper spiritual realities.

In the ancient Mediterranean, shared drinking was a key social and religious ritual. Drinking wine was a daily part of life and central to feasts and sacrifices. The 'cup' often symbolized one's divinely appointed lot or fate. Jesus' command to 'drink' at the Last Supper would have been understood within this framework of covenant meal symbolism, differing from a modern, purely individual act of consumption.

ποτίζω (potizō, G4222) — to give to drink, to water; emphasizes causing another to drink. μεθύω (methyō, G3184) — to be drunk, intoxicated; focuses on the state resulting from excessive drinking.

Word Details

Scripture References