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G1064 · Greek · New Testament
γαστήρ
gaster
Noun, feminine
womb, belly, stomach

Definition

Gaster (γαστήρ) means womb, belly, or stomach. It appears about 9 times in the New Testament. Most uses are literal: the womb of a mother (Matthew 1:18 — 'before they came together, she was found with child in her womb'), or the belly. One significant use is in Titus 1:12 where Cretans are accused of being 'lazy gluttons' (gasteres argai — 'idle bellies').

Usage & Theological Significance

The theological significance of gaster peaks in the Incarnation texts. Matthew 1:18 and Luke 2:21 both use it for Mary's womb — the holy vessel of the Son of God. The same word used for animal appetite and human gluttons is used for the womb that bore the Savior. God chose a belly to be His first home among us. This is the scandal and wonder of the Incarnation: the infinite became intimate, the eternal entered a womb. Titus 1:12's 'idle bellies' contrast with the productive, purposeful servant life of gospel ministry — one who lives for stomach versus one who lives for the kingdom.

Key Bible Verses

Matthew 1:18 His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant [en gastri echousa] through the Holy Spirit.
Luke 1:31 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus.
Titus 1:12 One of Crete's own prophets has said it: 'Cretans are always liars, evil brutes, lazy gluttons [gasteres argai].'
Romans 16:18 For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites [koilia, syn.]. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people.
Philippians 3:19 Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach [koilia], and their glory is in their shame.

Related Words

External Resources

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