Interpreting 'Epiousion' in the Sixth Chapter of the Gospel of Matthew: A Comprehensive Analysis

Introduction

The term epiousion is an intriguing element in the Lord's Prayer found in the Gospel of Matthew. It appears in the sixth chapter of the New Testament, serving as an adjective agreed with the noun arten, meaning 'bread.' While the exact meaning of epiousion remains a matter of scholarly debate, understanding its nuances is crucial for a comprehensive interpretation of this pivotal prayer.

Current Scholarly Perspectives

One Hebrew site has arbitrarily translated epiousion as 'ramid,' the Hebrew word for 'daily.' This interpretation, however, is not supported by the absence of biblical usage or cognates in other ancient languages. Most scholars today reject 'daily' as the appropriate translation and acknowledge that epiousion could encompass a variety of meanings, none of which are substantiated by period usage.

For instance, some scholars posit that epiousion refers to transubstantiation. This idea is compelling when considering the spiritual connotations of 'bread.' The phrase could then be interpreted as 'our daily spiritual sustenance.'

Historical Context and Usage

Epiousion is a unique term in the Lord's Prayer; it does not appear anywhere else in the Bible. Even the Greek Fathers, who spoke and wrote Greek as their mother tongue, were unaware of its exact meaning, requiring extreme caution when interpreting it.

The term is masculine accusative singular, agreeing in gender and number with the noun it qualifies, 'bread' (arten). Exegetical options include 'daily bread,' 'natural bread,' 'supernatural bread,' and 'bread for the coming day.'

Traditional Interpretations and Supporting Texts

The 'bread' (arten) in the Lord's Prayer is traditionally and correctly understood as including God's provision for all necessities of life, as seen in Matthew 6:32, 1 Timothy 6:8, and Proverbs 30:8–9.

'Daily' presents a more nuanced meaning. It may refer to the coming day, whether it is today when spoken in the morning or tomorrow when spoken in the evening. However, 'daily' seems to carry the idea of just one day at a time, much like the manna, as described in Jeremiah 37:21. The disciples of Jesus went out and about with Him, requiring only what was necessary for their present need, without hoarding out of anxiety for the future.

Context within the Kingdom of God

The context of the prayer is within the broader framework of the Kingdom of God. It is assumed that Christ's disciples will use the strength and sustenance gained from their daily bread to work for the kingdom.

Regarding 'one-off' words, it is always better to err on the side of caution. Translating epiousion to refer to supernaturally transubstantiated bread might fit certain sacramental theologies, but it could also mean 'the coming day's bread.' The term 'he epiousia' (that which is coming) or 'bread for the coming day' provides a plausible alternative interpretation.

Conclusion

The term epiousion in the Lord's Prayer is a rich and challenging element of the text. While its exact meaning remains elusive, various scholarly interpretations offer valuable insights. By carefully analyzing its historical context, exegetical options, and theological implications, we can better understand the profound spiritual message of the prayer within the context of the Kingdom of God.