Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Etymology: The term "sip" is not directly found in the Bible; however, the concept of drinking in small amounts can be inferred from various passages. The act of sipping, as understood in modern terms, involves taking in liquid slowly or in small quantities. The etymology of "sip" traces back to Middle English, related to the word "sup," which means to take liquid into the mouth in small quantities. Biblical Context and Usage: While the specific act of sipping is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, the broader concept of drinking is prevalent throughout the Scriptures. Drinking, whether of water, wine, or other beverages, is often depicted in both literal and metaphorical contexts. 1. Literal Drinking: · Water: In the Bible, water is a symbol of life and sustenance. In John 4:14 , Jesus speaks to the Samaritan woman at the well, saying, "But whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a fount of water springing up to eternal life." This passage highlights the life-giving and sustaining nature of water, which can be consumed in various ways, including sipping. · Wine: Wine is frequently mentioned in the Bible, often associated with celebration and covenant. In 1 Timothy 5:23 , Paul advises Timothy, "Stop drinking only water and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses." This suggests moderation in consumption, which aligns with the concept of sipping rather than drinking in excess. 2. Metaphorical Drinking: · Spiritual Nourishment: The act of drinking is often used metaphorically to describe spiritual nourishment and the reception of God's word. In Isaiah 55:1 , the invitation is extended: "Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you without money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk, without money and without cost." This passage invites believers to partake in the spiritual sustenance offered by God, which can be received gradually, akin to sipping. Theological Implications: The concept of sipping, when considered in a biblical context, can be seen as a metaphor for moderation and mindfulness in consumption. The Bible frequently warns against excess and encourages believers to practice self-control. Proverbs 23:20-21 states, "Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and drowsiness will clothe them in rags." This admonition underscores the importance of moderation, which can be symbolically represented by the act of sipping. Cultural and Historical Insights: In ancient Near Eastern cultures, where the Bible was written, communal meals and the sharing of drinks were significant social and religious practices. The act of drinking together, whether in small sips or larger quantities, was a means of fellowship and covenant-making. The Last Supper, as described in the Gospels, is a prime example of this, where Jesus shares wine with His disciples as a symbol of the new covenant (Matthew 26:27-28). Practical Application: For contemporary believers, the idea of sipping can serve as a reminder to approach all aspects of life with moderation and intentionality. Whether in physical consumption or spiritual practices, taking time to savor and reflect can lead to a deeper appreciation and understanding of God's provisions and teachings. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. t.) To drink or imbibe in small quantities; especially, to take in with the lips in small quantities, as a liquid; as, to sip tea.2. (v. t.) To draw into the mouth; to suck up; as, a bee sips nectar from the flowers. 3. (v. t.) To taste the liquor of; to drink out of. 4. (v. i.) To drink a small quantity; to take a fluid with the lips; to take a sip or sips of something. 5. (n.) The act of sipping; the taking of a liquid with the lips. 6. (n.) A small draught taken with the lips; a slight taste. Greek 4989. Sosipatros -- "of a safe father," Sosipater, a Christian ... Sosipatros. 4990 . "of a safe father," Sosipater, a Christian. Part of Speech: Noun, Masculine Transliteration: Sosipatros Phonetic Spelling: (so-sip'-at-ros ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4989.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 5966. ala -- perhaps to sip up... perhaps to sip up. Transliteration: ala Phonetic Spelling: (aw-lah') Short Definition: suck. ... root Definition perhaps to sip up NASB Word Usage suck (1). suck up. ... /hebrew/5966.htm - 5k 5598. Sippay -- a Philistine 5604. sippun -- a ceiling Library "As Thy Days, So Shall Thy Strength Be" The Wrath of God The Precious Ointment. False Professors Solemnly Warned The Desolations of the Lord, the Consolation of his Saints September 4. "Come Ye Yourselves Apart" (Mark vi. 31). Man's Medley List of Characters and Places Repentance More Competent to Heathens than to Christians. Evil Habits and Injurious Indulgences. Thesaurus Sip (1 Occurrence)... 1. (vt) To drink or imbibe in small quantities; especially, to take in with the lips in small quantities, as a liquid; as, to sip tea. ...Sip (1 Occurrence). ... /s/sip.htm - 7k Sip'pai (1 Occurrence) Sup (3 Occurrences) Sippai (1 Occurrence) Sion (9 Occurrences) Nip (1 Occurrence) Ivvah (3 Occurrences) Precipitation Cyprians (1 Occurrence) Siphmoth (1 Occurrence) Resources What is ethical relativism? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are a priori, a posteriori, and a fortiori arguments? | GotQuestions.org Sip: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Sip (1 Occurrence)Genesis 24:17 Subtopics Related Terms |