ποτίζω

I cause to drink, give to drink

Definition

The verb ποτίζω primarily means 'to cause to drink' or 'to give to drink.' In its most literal sense, it refers to providing water or another liquid to a person, animal, or plant, as seen in Luke 13:15 where Jesus speaks of watering an ox. It extends metaphorically to the concept of irrigation or watering the ground (1 Corinthians 3:6-8). In the New Testament, it also carries a significant figurative meaning of providing spiritual refreshment or sustenance, especially in the context of Christian ministry and care for others, as highlighted in Jesus's teachings about giving a cup of water in his name (Mark 9:41).

Biblical Usage

Ποτίζω is used 15 times in the New Testament, appearing in the Gospels, Pauline epistles, and Revelation. Its usage is often literal, describing the act of giving drink to the thirsty, which Jesus elevates to an act of discipleship and compassion (Matthew 25:35, 42). In passages like 1 Corinthians 3:6-8, Paul uses it agriculturally as a metaphor for ministerial work ('I planted, Apollos watered'). It also appears in the crucifixion narratives, where Jesus is given sour wine to drink (Matthew 27:48, Mark 15:36).

Etymology

The word ποτίζω is derived from the Greek root ποτ- (pot-), related to drinking, which is also seen in πότος (potos, 'a drinking') and πίνω (pinō, 'to drink'). It is a causative verb form, meaning 'to cause to drink.' This root connects to a wider Indo-European family of words concerning drinking and liquids.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it connects simple acts of physical mercy with spiritual identity and reward. In Matthew 10:42 and Mark 9:41, giving a cup of water 'in the name of a disciple' is tied to eternal reward, highlighting the value of humble service. In 1 Corinthians 3:6-8, it becomes a metaphor for collaborative ministry, where 'watering' is part of God's work of growth. Understanding ποτίζω enriches reading by showing how physical care is inseparable from spiritual faithfulness and community.

In the arid climate of the ancient Near East, offering water was a fundamental and vital act of hospitality and survival. Providing drink to a guest, stranger, or animal was a basic ethical duty. This cultural backdrop gives profound weight to Jesus's teachings in Matthew 25, where caring for the 'thirsty' is directly linked to serving Christ himself. The act carried more immediate, life-sustaining significance than it might in many modern contexts.

πίνω (pinō, G4095) — The simpler verb 'to drink,' whereas ποτίζω is causative, 'to give to drink.' διψάω (dipsaō, G1372) — Means 'to thirst,' describing the need that ποτίζω satisfies. ἐπισκέπτομαι (episkeptomai, G1980) — Means 'to look after, visit,' a broader term for care that can include providing drink.

Word Details

Scripture References