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Unveiling the Word

In biblical studies, understanding Greek words like μεστός (mestós) is essential for capturing the nuances and depth of scripture. This particular word, appearing first in Matthew 23:38, is often translated as “full” or “filled.” Its significance lies in its usage to describe a state of completeness, whether positive or negative. The word’s relevance extends beyond the New Testament, as it helps to paint a picture of the ancient Greek understanding of fullness, both literally and metaphorically. By delving into the meaning and usage of μεστός, we gain insight into how the concept of being filled or complete was viewed in both biblical and classical contexts.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: μεστός (mestós) [me-STOS].

Etymology: The root of μεστός is traced to the Proto-Indo-European root *meh₁-, which means “to measure” or “to fill.” This etymology underscores the word’s fundamental connection to the idea of completeness or fullness.

Part of Speech: Adjective. As an adjective, μεστός describes the state of being full or filled. It can modify nouns in various cases, numbers, and genders, depending on the grammatical context.

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Defining Meanings

1. Full: The primary meaning of μεστός is “full” or “filled.” It is used to describe something that is complete or brimming with content, whether it be a physical object or an abstract concept, such as an emotion or condition.
2. Complete: In a broader sense, μεστός can imply a state of completeness or perfection, indicating that something has reached its full measure or potential.
3. Thoroughly Permeated: The word also conveys the idea of something being thoroughly permeated or infused, such as a vessel filled with liquid or a person filled with an emotion.

Exploring Similar Words

1. πλήρης (plērēs) [plā-RAYS]: Meaning “full” or “complete,” this word is often used interchangeably with μεστός but typically emphasizes a more qualitative sense of fullness, such as moral or spiritual completeness.
2. κεχραμένος (kechramenos) [keh-KHRAH-meh-nos]: This word means “mixed” or “tempered,” and while it can indicate fullness in the sense of a mixture, it differs by emphasizing the combination of elements rather than mere abundance.
3. πλήθω (plēthō) [PLAY-tho]: Meaning “to fill” or “to be filled,” this verb form focuses on the act of filling or the state of being filled, often in a dynamic sense.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As an adjective, μεστός conforms to the regular declension patterns for adjectives in Greek. Here is a basic declension table:

This table shows how μεστός changes form based on its grammatical case and number, allowing it to agree with various nouns it modifies. Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

In lexicons, μεστός is often discussed in relation to its use in describing physical fullness, such as being filled with food, water, or other tangible substances. However, it also extends metaphorically to describe a state of being filled with intangible qualities, such as guilt, joy, or sorrow. BDAG emphasizes its use in describing vessels or containers that are filled, while Thayer’s and LSJ highlight its broader applications in literature and rhetoric. Vine’s notes its metaphorical usage in moral and ethical contexts, such as being full of hypocrisy or righteousness.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Matthew 23:28: “So you, too, outwardly appear righteous to men, but inwardly you are full [μεστοί] of hypocrisy and lawlessness.”
2. Luke 11:39: “Now you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but inside you are full [μεστοί] of greed and wickedness.”
3. Acts 6:5: “The statement found approval with the whole congregation; and they chose Stephen, a man full [μεστός] of faith and of the Holy Spirit.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

Μεστός is a versatile Greek adjective used to describe a state of fullness or completeness, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual. Its usage in the New Testament often conveys a metaphorical sense, highlighting moral and ethical conditions. Understanding this word enriches our grasp of scriptural contexts, revealing how ancient writers used the concept of fullness to convey both literal and figurative meanings.

Did You Know?

1. The word μεστός can also be used in a culinary context, describing food that is rich and abundant.
2. In Greek mythology, the term was used to describe the “fullness” of divine power or influence, indicating a person or place completely overtaken by a deity.
3. Μεστός appears frequently in Greek literature to describe the physical state of rivers, containers, and even emotions, showcasing its broad applicability across contexts.