δίψος (dipsos)
dipsos
thirst
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun dipsos refers simply to thirst, specifically the physical sensation of needing water. It appears only once in the New Testament, recorded in Paul’s list of hardships in 2 Corinthians 11:27. Here, it stands alongside other bodily deprivations like hunger and cold, highlighting the raw, unglamorous reality of his missionary suffering.
Lexical sources note that dipsos is a later form of the more common word dipsa. While both terms describe the same physical need, dipsos appears exclusively in this single Pauline instance. Its rarity suggests it may have been a stylistic choice or a reflection of contemporary usage rather than a term with distinct theological nuance.
By placing dipsos among his many trials, Paul emphasizes the tangible cost of his ministry. The word does not carry metaphorical weight in this context; instead, it grounds his spiritual labor in physical exhaustion. This concrete detail invites readers to appreciate the human dimension of apostolic witness.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word dipsos appears just once in the New Testament, found in 2 Corinthians 11:27. Paul lists it among his many hardships: labor, watchings, hunger, and cold. This simple noun describes the physical sensation of thirst, a basic human need that becomes acute when water is scarce.
Paul does not use this word to teach a deep theological lesson about spiritual longing. Instead, he uses it to show the real cost of his ministry. He endured these physical limits for the sake of the gospel. This reminds us that faith often involves tangible sacrifice and bodily discomfort.
When you face your own moments of exhaustion or need, remember that Paul was not exempt from such struggles. His willingness to endure thirst and cold shows a commitment that goes beyond comfort. This honesty about human weakness can encourage you in your own walk of faith.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- thirst,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- δίψει,1×
Key Verses
-
II Corinthians 11:27
in labor and travail, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, and in cold and nakedness.
Paul includes this rare term in a list of physical deprivations to highlight the tangible cost of his missionary labor.