δοχή (dochē)
dochē
banquet
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun dochē refers to a formal feast or banquet, capturing the sense of a significant social gathering centered on food and hospitality. In the New Testament, this word appears only twice, both within the Gospel of Luke, where it anchors scenes of communal celebration.
Its usage highlights the cultural importance of shared meals in first-century Judea. Jesus employs the term when describing the blessed state of those who invite guests who cannot repay them (Luke 14:13), and it appears in the narrative of Levi’s great banquet following his call (Luke 5:29). The word conveys not just eating, but the full experience of hosting and receiving.
Etymologically, dochē derives from the verb dechomai, meaning to receive or welcome. This root connection emphasizes that a banquet is fundamentally an act of reception—opening one’s home and resources to others. The lexicon data links this Greek term to the Hebrew mishteh in the Septuagint, further grounding it in the tradition of royal or festive feasts found in the Old Testament.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word dochē describes more than just a meal; it captures the full spirit of a formal banquet, a gathering centered on hospitality and shared life. In the New Testament, this term appears only twice, both in Luke’s Gospel, where it anchors scenes of communal celebration. It reminds us that food is often the setting for deep connection and grace.
Jesus uses this concept to challenge our social habits. He invites us to host feasts not for those who can repay us, but for those who cannot. This shifts the focus from social climbing to genuine love, turning a simple dinner into an act of mercy. Such gatherings reflect God’s own heart for the marginalized.
When we open our homes, we participate in this ancient tradition of reception. It is an opportunity to extend grace without expecting anything in return. May your own table become a place where strangers feel welcome and neighbors find rest.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- a feast1×
- a banquet1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- δοχὴν2×
Key Verses
-
Luke 5:29
Levi made a great feast for him in his house. There was a great crowd of tax collectors and others who were reclining with them.
This verse shows the word describing Levi’s public celebration after his call, highlighting how Jesus’ presence transforms social gatherings into moments of inclusion.
-
Luke 14:13
But when you make a feast, ask the poor, the maimed, the lame, or the blind;
Here Jesus redefines the purpose of such a feast, instructing hosts to invite those who cannot repay them, thus linking the banquet directly to selfless love.