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G709 · Greek · New Testament
ἀριστάω
Aristao
Verb
To eat breakfast, to take a meal

Definition

The Greek aristao (ἀριστάω) means 'to eat breakfast' or 'to take a morning/midday meal.' It appears in John 21:12 and 21:15 in the post-resurrection account where Jesus invites the disciples: 'Come and have breakfast.' This meal on the beach of Galilee — fish and bread over a charcoal fire — is one of the most intimate resurrection appearances in the Gospels.

Usage & Theological Significance

Jesus' invitation 'Come and have breakfast' (deute aristesate) after the resurrection is among the most tender moments in the New Testament. The risen Lord feeds His disciples. The scene mirrors the Last Supper — Jesus takes bread and gives it — and evokes the Eucharist. But it is also beautifully domestic: a fire on the beach, fish cooking, the smell of charcoal, hungry fishermen. Peter had denied Jesus by a charcoal fire (John 18:18); now he is restored by another charcoal fire where Jesus cooks breakfast (John 21:9). The Risen One meets His people in the ordinary — in breakfast, in fishing, in the early morning — and transforms the mundane into sacred encounter. Grace often comes as breakfast.

Key Bible Verses

John 21:12 Jesus said to them, 'Come and have breakfast (aristesate).' None of the disciples dared ask him, 'Who are you?' They knew it was the Lord.
John 21:15 When they had finished eating (aristesantes), Jesus said to Simon Peter, 'Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?'
John 21:9 When they landed, they saw a fire of burning coals there with fish on it, and some bread.
Luke 24:30 When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them.
Revelation 3:20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.

Related Words

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