← Back to Lexicon
G1394 · Greek · New Testament
δόσις
Dosis
Noun, feminine
Gift / Act of Giving

Definition

The Greek dosis (G1394) refers to a gift or the act of giving. It emphasizes the action or process of giving, distinguishing the act from the gift itself (doma). James 1:17 uses it to describe God as the inexhaustible source of all true gifts.

Usage & Theological Significance

Dosis appears in two significant passages. James 1:17 declares that 'every good and perfect gift (dosis) is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights' — establishing God as the inexhaustible giver. Philippians 4:15 uses dosis in a financial metaphor of partnership in the gospel. Both passages frame giving in relational terms — the circulation of grace.

Key Bible Verses

James 1:17 Every good and perfect gift (dosis) is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
Philippians 4:15 In the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving (dosis) and receiving, except you only.
2 Corinthians 9:7 Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
Matthew 7:11 How much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!
Acts 20:35 It is more blessed to give than to receive.

Related Words

External Resources

🌙
☀️