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Unveiling the Word

In Biblical studies, understanding Greek words helps illuminate the depth and nuances of Scripture, as many terms carry rich layers of meaning. One such word is μήτρα (mētra), which appears in Luke 2:23 and is translated as “womb.” This word is essential for understanding key themes related to birth, motherhood, and consecration in both biblical and classical contexts. The term μήτρα is not only used to refer to the physical womb but also symbolically in broader theological discussions about life and the sacred. Its significance in New Testament interpretation and ancient Greek culture emphasizes the sanctity of the womb in familial and religious settings.

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Greek Word: μήτρα (mētra), pronounced MAY-trah.

Etymology: The word μήτρα is derived from a Proto-Indo-European root that is related to terms for “mother.” It is connected with other words in Greek, such as μήτηρ (mētēr), meaning “mother,” emphasizing the association between the womb and motherhood.

Part of Speech: μήτρα is a noun, feminine in gender. It is a first declension noun, which is typical for feminine nouns in Greek. As a noun, it is used to refer to the womb or uterus, both literally and figuratively in some contexts.

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Defining Meanings

1. Womb: The primary meaning of μήτρα is the physical womb, the part of a woman’s body where a child is conceived and grows before birth. It is used in this literal sense in biblical passages that discuss childbirth or consecration of the firstborn, as seen in Luke 2:23.

2. Place of Origin: In a more symbolic or figurative sense, μήτρα can be used to denote the place of origin, where life begins or something is created. This broader meaning connects it with discussions of creation and life.

Exploring Similar Words

1. μήτηρ (mētēr): Pronounced MAY-tair, meaning “mother.” This word directly relates to μήτρα as it is the feminine role associated with the womb. While μήτρα refers to the physical organ, μήτηρ refers to the woman who carries a child.

2. γαστήρ (gastēr): Pronounced GAS-tair, another word for “womb” or “stomach,” often used in medical or anatomical contexts. It differs from μήτρα in that it can also refer more broadly to the stomach, while μήτρα is specifically tied to childbirth.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender: As a first declension noun, μήτρα follows a typical pattern for feminine nouns. It is declined as follows:

• Nominative singular: μήτρα (mētra) – subject

• Genitive singular: μήτρας (mētras) – possession

• Dative singular: μήτρᾳ (mētrāi) – indirect object

• Accusative singular: μήτραν (mētran) – direct object

The plural forms would follow standard first-declension patterns, though μήτρα primarily appears in the singular form in the New Testament.

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Studying Lexicon Insights

Lexicons provide varied insights into the use of μήτρα across contexts. In the New Testament, the word is used to refer to physical birth, particularly in Luke 2:23, where it speaks of the consecration of the firstborn male who “opens the womb.” Lexicons like BDAG and Thayer’s highlight its frequent association with birth, motherhood, and the sanctity of life in Jewish law, where the firstborn was regarded as holy to the Lord. Classical Greek literature also uses μήτρα symbolically, referring to the womb as a source of life or a place of creation. The word’s theological implications are vast, encompassing discussions on life, holiness, and familial roles.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Luke 2:23 – “As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb [μήτρα] shall be called holy to the Lord.”

2. Exodus 13:2 (Septuagint) – “Sanctify unto me all the firstborn, whatsoever openeth the womb [μήτρα] among the children of Israel.”

3. Exodus 34:19 (Septuagint) – “All that openeth the womb [μήτρα] is mine.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work Text with μήτρα (mētra)

Plato Timaeus “And from the womb [μήτρα] comes the origin of life.”

Herodotus Histories “The mother’s womb [μήτρα] was seen as sacred in the rites.”

Septuagint Exodus 13:2 “Whatsoever openeth the womb [μήτρα] shall be sanctified.”

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word μήτρα (mētra) plays a significant role in both the New Testament and classical Greek literature, symbolizing not only the physical womb but also themes of life, origin, and holiness. In the Bible, it highlights the sacredness of birth, particularly in the context of Jewish law and the consecration of the firstborn. This word’s theological implications extend into deeper discussions about the sanctity of life and motherhood. It serves as a profound reminder of the connection between life, creation, and divine holiness.

Did You Know?

• The word μήτρα appears most famously in Luke 2:23 in connection with the law of consecrating the firstborn male.

• In classical Greek, μήτρα was sometimes used in philosophical contexts to discuss the origins of life and the human condition.

• The practice of consecrating the firstborn from the womb was deeply rooted in Jewish law and was seen as an act of devotion to God.