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Unveiling the Word

The study of Greek words in biblical texts opens up a deeper understanding of the Scriptures, helping us see the intricacies of meaning and cultural relevance. The Greek word μετρητής (metrētēs), first appearing in John 2:6, is particularly significant because it highlights an element of daily life in ancient times—the measurement of liquids. In the context of John 2:6, it refers to the waterpots at the wedding feast in Cana, where Jesus performed the miracle of turning water into wine. Understanding metrētēs provides insights not only into the cultural practices of the time but also adds layers of meaning to this important miracle, which holds deep theological significance in Christian teachings.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: μετρητής (metrētēs, pronounced meh-treh-TACE)

Etymology: Derived from the root word μετρεω (metreō), meaning “to measure,” metrētēs refers specifically to a vessel or container used for measuring liquids. This connection between the verb “to measure” and the noun for a vessel used in such actions ties into its practical usage in daily life.

Part of Speech: Noun (masculine). Metrētēs is a masculine noun, which generally refers to a liquid-measuring vessel or jar, used for purposes of holding or distributing water or wine.

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

Defining Meanings

Meaning 1: A container or vessel for measuring liquids. In its most straightforward sense, metrētēs refers to a vessel or jar used to measure water, wine, or other liquids. In John 2:6, it is used to describe the stone waterpots that were part of a ritual purification process, each holding a considerable volume of liquid.

Meaning 2: A symbolic representation of abundance. The miracle of turning water into wine at the wedding feast in Cana also gives metrētēs a symbolic dimension, representing not just the provision of wine but a divine act of abundance and blessing.

Exploring Similar Words

μετρεω (metreō, pronounced meh-TREH-oh): This verb means “to measure” and is the root of metrētēs. While metreō refers to the act of measuring, metrētēs refers to the container used for that purpose.

ἀγγεῖον (angeion, pronounced an-GEH-on): This word refers to a vessel or container, but more generally and not specifically for measurement. While metrētēs is focused on liquid measurement, angeion could refer to various types of containers.

ὑδρία (hydria, pronounced hoo-DREE-ah): This term is similar but more general, referring to any water jar or pot. While metrētēs specifies a jar used for measuring, hydria could be used for storage or carrying water.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a noun, metrētēs follows the standard declension patterns for masculine nouns in Greek. Its case and number reflect its grammatical role in sentences, as shown in the table below:

Studying Lexicon Insights

Across several major lexicons, metrētēs is consistently defined as a “measuring vessel,” particularly used in the context of liquids. Its primary New Testament appearance in John 2:6 emphasizes its importance in domestic and ritual life, where large jars were commonly used in Jewish purification rites. The theological implications in John 2:6 are noteworthy, as the miracle signifies a transformation from ordinary water used for purification to extraordinary wine, symbolizing Jesus’ power to transform and purify. In classical Greek, metrētēs would have had more practical connotations, used in trade, daily life, and commerce to ensure fairness and accuracy in transactions involving liquid goods.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

• John 2:6: “Now there were six stone water jars [μετρηταί] there for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty or thirty gallons [μετρητής].”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word metrētēs offers a glimpse into both everyday life in ancient times and theological symbolism in the New Testament. Its use in John 2:6 highlights the role of measuring vessels in Jewish rites of purification, while also underscoring the miraculous transformation performed by Jesus at Cana. In both classical and biblical contexts, metrētēs reflects the importance of accurate measurement, fairness in transactions, and spiritual abundance. It is a powerful reminder of how physical tools and everyday objects can take on deeper spiritual significance in biblical narratives.

Did You Know?

• The jars described in John 2:6 could hold between 20 to 30 gallons each, making the total volume of wine produced by Jesus’ miracle an estimated 120 to 180 gallons!
• The word metrētēs was commonly used in ancient markets to ensure fair trade, underscoring the idea of justice in measurement.
• In Jewish tradition, purification rituals often involved water from large metrētēs, emphasizing the significance of cleanliness and holiness in daily life.