The meaning of “ποιμαίνω”
Understanding poimaínō reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
feed (cattle), rule. - to tend as a shepherd of (figuratively, superviser)
ποιμαίνω
feed (cattle), rule. - to tend as a shepherd of (figuratively, superviser)
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 2:6 | “And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.” Word: ποιμαίνω (poimaínō) | |
| Luke 17:7 | “But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say unto him by and by, when he is come from the field, Go and sit down to meat?” Word: ποιμαίνω (poimaínō) | |
| John 21:16 | “He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.” Word: ποιμαίνω (poimaínō) | |
| Acts 20:28 | “Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.” Word: ποιμαίνω (poimaínō) | |
| 1 Corinthians 9:7 | “Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges? who planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock?” Word: ποιμαίνω (poimaínō) |