Brief Overview of μεταβάλλω (Strong’s G3328: metaballō)

Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words is crucial in biblical studies because it helps reveal the deeper layers of meaning behind the original text. The word μεταβάλλω (metaballō), which first appears in Acts 28:6, is particularly significant because it captures the idea of sudden change or transformation. This verb, with its rich connotations, can describe both physical and emotional shifts, making it relevant for interpreting various New Testament passages and understanding ancient Greek culture. Whether depicting changes in circumstances or alterations in perspective, metaballō serves as a key term for comprehending the dynamics of human experience as recorded in the Bible.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: μεταβάλλω (metaballō) [me-tah-BAH-loh]

Etymology: The word metaballō is a compound of the preposition μετά (meta), meaning “with” or “after,” and the verb βάλλω (ballō), which means “to throw” or “to cast.” Together, the term conveys the sense of throwing oneself after or towards something, thereby indicating a change of direction, position, or state.

Part of Speech: Verb. As a verb, metaballō describes the action of changing or transforming. It is often used to indicate a sudden or notable shift, whether in physical location, emotional state, or circumstances.

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Defining Meanings

1. To Change or Transform: This is the primary meaning of metaballō, referring to any kind of change, whether it’s a shift in position, appearance, or state. In Acts 28:6, it describes the change in the attitude of the people towards Paul after they saw that he was unharmed by a snakebite.
2. To Turn or Shift: It can also mean to turn one’s attention or direction from one thing to another, indicating a shift in focus or perspective.
3. To Alter or Modify: In a broader sense, metaballō can describe the process of modifying or altering something, such as changing plans or strategies.

Exploring Similar Words

1. μεταμορφόω (metamorphoō) [meh-tah-mor-FOH-oh]: Meaning “to transform” or “to change in form,” this word focuses more on a complete transformation, often used in the context of a fundamental change in nature or appearance.
2. μεταστρέφω (metastrephō) [meh-tah-STREH-foh]: Meaning “to turn around” or “to pervert,” this term suggests a change in direction or a reversal, often with a negative connotation.
3. μετατίθημι (metatithēmi) [meh-tah-TEE-theh-mee]: Meaning “to transfer” or “to change position,” this word emphasizes the act of moving something from one place or state to another, often implying a shift in context or function.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

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Tense, Voice, Mood: Metaballō appears primarily in the present and aorist tenses, highlighting either ongoing or completed actions. It can be found in both the active and middle voices, indicating whether the subject is performing the action or experiencing it in some way. It is used in the indicative mood to state facts, as well as in other moods to express possibilities or commands.

Person and Number: The verb can be conjugated in various persons (1st, 2nd, 3rd) and numbers (singular, plural). For example, “μεταβάλλω” (I change) and “μεταβάλλουσιν” (they change).

Aspect: The aspect of metaballō indicates whether the action is viewed as a simple occurrence (aorist aspect) or as an ongoing process (present aspect).

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Studying Lexicon Insights

According to BDAG, metaballō captures the idea of a sudden or dramatic change, often in response to new information or circumstances. Thayer’s and LSJ both emphasize its use in describing changes in opinion or status. Vine’s notes that the term is not common in the New Testament but is significant where it does appear. Strong’s focuses on its basic meaning of “changing” or “turning around.” LEH and Moulton and Milligan add classical and Septuagint contexts, illustrating how the term was used to describe changes in position or fortune.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Acts 28:6: “But they were expecting that he was going to swell up or suddenly fall down dead. But after they had waited a long time and had seen nothing unusual happen to him, they changed [μετεβάλοντο] their minds and began to say that he was a god.”
2. Acts 28:3: “But when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and laid them on the fire, a viper came out because of the heat and fastened on his hand.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

Metaballō is a dynamic verb capturing sudden changes or shifts in perspective or state. Its use in Acts 28:6 highlights the dramatic change in the people’s perception of Paul, shifting from suspicion to reverence. Understanding this term deepens our appreciation of the fluidity of human reactions and the impact of divine intervention.

Did You Know?

1. The English word “metabolism” shares the same root, reflecting the idea of internal change or transformation.
2. Metaballō can be used in classical Greek to describe changes in weather or fortune, highlighting its broad applicability.
3. This verb appears only once in the New Testament, but its use carries significant weight in understanding human reactions to unexpected events.