Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words in biblical studies provides deep insight into the context, culture, and significance of the text. The word μηλωτή (transliterated mēlōtē) is especially important because it is used in the book of Hebrews (11:37), a chapter often referred to as the “Hall of Faith.” In this verse, the word refers to a garment made from sheep or goat skins, symbolizing the hardships and persecution endured by the prophets and martyrs. The usage of this word sheds light on the suffering endured by righteous individuals throughout biblical history, making it a key term for understanding both the practical and symbolic aspects of ancient life and spiritual endurance.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: μηλωτή (mēlōtē), pronounced may-lo-TAY. This noun directly refers to a skin garment, typically made from the hide of a sheep or goat.

Etymology: The root word comes from the Greek noun μήλον (mēlon), meaning “sheep” or “goat.” This clearly ties the word to a physical object—an animal’s skin used for clothing. Its broader application refers to the hardships associated with those who wore such garments.

Part of Speech: μηλωτή is a feminine noun. As a noun, it functions to describe a tangible object—a garment made from an animal’s skin.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

1. Garment of Sheep or Goat Skin: This is the primary meaning of mēlōtē, directly referring to a cloak or covering made from animal hide. In biblical times, such garments were common among shepherds, prophets, and those living in humble conditions.
2. Symbol of Persecution and Hardship: In Hebrews 11:37, the word is used to describe the prophets and martyrs who endured persecution, often being “destitute, afflicted, tormented.” The image of wearing such a garment serves as a metaphor for enduring suffering and rejection for the sake of righteousness.

Exploring Similar Words

1. ἱμάτιον (himátion) [hee-MAT-ee-on]: This word means “cloak” or “outer garment” in general. While similar, it doesn’t carry the connotation of hardship or the rustic nature associated with mēlōtē.
2. χιτών (chitón) [khee-TONE]: Another word for a tunic or basic garment, typically worn underneath a cloak. Unlike mēlōtē, chitón doesn’t specify material or imply the same symbolic significance of persecution.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender: μηλωτή is a first-declension feminine noun. It can appear in different cases depending on its grammatical role in a sentence:

• Nominative Singular: μηλωτή (subject form)
• Genitive Singular: μηλωτῆς (showing possession)
• Accusative Singular: μηλωτήν (direct object form)

As it is a feminine noun, it adheres to the first declension pattern typical of many Greek words for common objects or items.

Declension Table:

Click here for a beginner’s guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The term mēlōtē appears across multiple Greek lexicons, consistently referring to a skin garment, typically made from sheep or goats. In biblical and classical literature, this term frequently indicates the humble or rugged nature of the wearer. In the context of Hebrews 11:37, the word emphasizes the simplicity and suffering of those who wore such clothing, often as a sign of their rejection by society for their prophetic role. The garment, a symbol of affliction, speaks to the enduring faith of individuals who lived outside of societal privileges, enduring persecution for their testimony.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

• Hebrews 11:37: “They were stoned, they were sawn in two, were tempted, were slain with the sword. They wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, tormented.”
• Further occurrences of this specific word are rare, making its appearance in Hebrews highly symbolic and significant.

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word mēlōtē (G3374) describes a simple garment made of animal skin, often used to symbolize the persecution and suffering endured by prophets and martyrs in the Bible. In Hebrews 11:37, the word encapsulates both physical and spiritual suffering endured for faith. Understanding this word enriches the context of biblical passages and highlights the humility and hardship of key figures in Scripture.

Did You Know?

• The garment described by mēlōtē was often worn by prophets such as Elijah.
• In ancient Greece, shepherds commonly wore skin garments, making it a symbol of simplicity and humility.
• The use of mēlōtē in Hebrews ties the image of physical suffering to spiritual perseverance.