Tuesday, August 28, 2018

Richard Holzapfel and Thomas Wayment on τρωγω in John 6:54

Not many Latter-day Saints have commented on the significance of the shift in verb (and tense) of εσυιω to τρωγω beginning in John 6:54. I have discussed this issue, with reference to the theology of the Lord Supper and Catholic apologetic arguments related thereto, at:

τρωγω in John 6: Proof of Transubstantiation?

Moulton-Milligan on τρωγω

Such is why one is appreciative of the fact that, while all too brief, Richard Holzapfel and Thomas Wayment should be commended for commenting on this issue too:

John 6:54 uses the verb trogō, “eat” or “chew,” which is often used to describe the way animals eat but not the way humans eat. It carries with it the symbolism of consuming completely rather than eating in haste or lightly. Jesus’ flesh was to be “chewed” or deliberately consumed and digested, thus showing how important death and resurrection were to Jesus’ mission and the salvation of mankind. This was at least part of the focus of the Bread of Life discourse that was not understood by those who wanted to come and make Jesus king. (Richard Neitzel Holzapfel and Thomas A. Wayment, Making Sense of the New Testament: Timely Insights and Timeless Messages [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2010], 113-14)


For more on John 6 and related issues, see:

Responses to Robert Sungenis, not by Bread Alone (2000/2009)