Brief Overview of σιτομέτριον (Strong’s G4620: sitometrion)

Strong’s G4620: A compound noun meaning “measured portion of grain” or “food allowance.” Used in the context of household management, particularly regarding the responsibility of faithful stewards to provide regular portions of food to those under their care.

U- Unveiling the Word

Σιτομέτριον represents more than just a measured portion of food – it embodies the concept of faithful stewardship and responsible provision. In its New Testament context, Jesus uses this term to illustrate the duties of spiritual leaders in caring for God’s household. The word carries dual significance: the literal provision of physical sustenance and the metaphorical feeding of spiritual nourishment. Early church fathers saw in this word a model for pastoral ministry, emphasizing both the privilege and responsibility of spiritual provision. Today, it continues to remind Christian leaders of their duty to provide regular spiritual nourishment to God’s people.

N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: σιτομέτριον, sitometrion, si-to-ME-tri-on
• Detailed Pronunciation: σι (see) το (to) μέ (ME) τρι (tri) ον (on) – stress on third syllable
• Part of Speech: Noun, Neuter

Etymology:

• Compound word from:
• σῖτος (sitos) – “grain, food”
• μέτρον (metron) – “measure”
• -ιον (diminutive suffix)

D – Defining Meanings

• Measured portion of grain
• Food allowance
• Ration of provisions

For compound words:

• σῖτος contributes the meaning of “grain/food”
• μέτρον adds the concept of “measurement”
• -ιον indicates a specific instance or portion

Translation Options:

• Food allowance – emphasizing regular provision
• Measured portion – highlighting the careful distribution
• Ration – stressing the systematic nature of provision

E – Exploring Similar Words

• τροφή (trophē, tro-FAY) – See G5160: Food in general
• μέτρον (metron, ME-tron) – See G3358: Measure or portion
• ἄρτος (artos, AR-tos) – See G740: Bread, daily food

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

• Case: Nominative, Accusative, Genitive, Dative
• Number: Singular (Plural rare)
• Gender: Neuter
• Declension: Second declension

The word follows standard second declension patterns for neuter nouns, with the typical -ον ending in nominative and accusative singular.

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its use in household management contexts. Thayer’s notes its technical nature in food distribution. LSJ documents its use in administrative texts. Vine’s highlights its significance in Jesus’ teaching about faithful service. Moulton and Milligan cite papyri showing its use in household accounts and food distribution records.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
Luke 12:42: “The Lord answered, ‘Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom the master puts in charge of his servants to give them their [food allowance] [σιτομέτριον] at the proper time?'”

Additional References:
This word appears only once in the New Testament.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Σιτομέτριον beautifully illustrates Christ’s expectation for those who lead His church. Just as faithful stewards provided measured portions of food at proper times, spiritual leaders are called to provide regular spiritual nourishment. This word proclaims the good news that King Jesus cares for His people through faithful servants who distribute His word and truth.

D – Did You Know?

• This term was commonly used in Egyptian papyri for food distribution records
• It specifically implied regular, systematic provision rather than occasional giving
• The word was particularly associated with responsible household management

Strong’s G4620: A compound noun meaning “measured portion of grain” or “food allowance.” Used in the context of household management, particularly regarding the responsibility of faithful stewards to provide regular portions of food to those under their care.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: stewardship, provision, food, management, service, faithfulness, pastoral-care, responsibility, household, leadership, distribution, care​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​