Unveiling the Word

In biblical studies, understanding the original Greek words used in the New Testament adds depth to interpretation and helps readers better grasp the cultural and historical context. The word μίλιον (mílion), which occurs in Matthew 5:41, is particularly significant in understanding Roman occupation and the laws governing it during the time of Jesus. The word is often translated as “mile,” but it specifically refers to a Roman mile, which is slightly shorter than the modern mile. This word appears in the context of Jesus’ teaching on going the extra mile, a phrase now embedded in everyday language but rooted in Roman military customs.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: μίλιον (mílion), pronounced MEE-lee-on.

Etymology: The word μίλιον comes from the Latin mille passus, which means “a thousand paces.” A Roman mile consisted of approximately 1,000 double steps, or 5,000 Roman feet, equating to roughly 1.48 kilometers or 0.92 modern miles.

Part of Speech: It is a noun, specifically a neuter noun, and refers to a unit of distance. In the context of biblical times, it had specific legal and cultural implications under Roman occupation.

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

Defining Meanings

1. Roman Mile: The primary meaning of μίλιον is a Roman mile, which is around 1.48 kilometers (or 0.92 modern miles). This was the standard unit of distance used throughout the Roman Empire and featured in the laws requiring subjects of the empire to carry a Roman soldier’s equipment for up to one mile.

2. Symbol of Compulsion: In Matthew 5:41, Jesus says, “If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two.” Here, μίλιον is used in the sense of compulsory labor. Under Roman law, a Roman soldier could compel any subject to carry their burden for a mile. Jesus’ instruction to go two miles was a radical call to go beyond what was required by law, demonstrating love and selflessness.

Exploring Similar Words

1. Στάδιον (stádion) [pronunciation: STA-dee-on]: Refers to a stadium or a distance of 600 feet. It is used metaphorically in other parts of the New Testament for running a race or a measurement of length, differing in specific length from the μίλιον.

2. Χιλιόμετρον (khiliómetron) [pronunciation: khee-lee-OH-meh-tron]: A more modern term for kilometer, indicating a thousand meters. Though this is not found in ancient Greek texts, it illustrates the way units of distance evolved over time.

3. Δράξ (dráks) [pronunciation: DRA-ks]: Refers to a grasp or handful, commonly used to denote measurements in the context of weights or small measures, but it differs significantly in meaning from μίλιον, which measures distance.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender: As a neuter noun, μίλιον follows the second declension pattern in Greek.

Case Singular Plural

Nominative μίλιον μίλια

Genitive μιλίου μιλίων

Dative μιλίῳ μιλίοις

Accusative μίλιον μίλια

Studying Lexicon Insights

The word μίλιον is widely understood in lexicons to represent a Roman unit of distance. It is used in biblical texts, such as in Matthew 5:41, where it appears within the Sermon on the Mount. Lexicons point out the cultural implications of this word, as it ties directly to the oppressive Roman legal system in which Jews were forced to carry a soldier’s load for a Roman mile. Jesus’ message about going the extra mile was subversive, challenging both the Jewish resentment of Roman authority and calling for a demonstration of grace.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Matthew 5:41: “If anyone forces you to go one mile [μίλιον], go with them two.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work Text with μίλιον

Herodotus Histories Refers to distances, though not explicitly using μίλιον, but similar terms for units of distance.

Strabo Geography Strabo mentions the distances between cities, often measured in Roman miles.

Septuagint Numbers While μίλιον does not appear in the Septuagint, equivalent terms for measuring distances in ancient texts reflect similar concepts.

Noteworthy Summary

The word μίλιον (Strong’s G3400) refers to a Roman mile and carries significant cultural and historical weight, particularly in understanding the oppressive nature of Roman rule during the time of Jesus. In Matthew 5:41, Jesus’ call to “go the extra mile” (μίλιον) subverts Roman legal expectations and encourages a spirit of generosity and grace. The word not only informs our understanding of distance but also symbolizes the demands placed upon Jewish subjects by their Roman occupiers.

Did You Know?

• A Roman mile was about 1.48 kilometers or 0.92 miles, slightly shorter than a modern mile.

• The idea of “going the extra mile” has its roots in Roman law, where soldiers could compel civilians to carry their burdens for a mile.

• Mílion was a standard unit of distance in the Roman Empire and influenced early road systems, some of which are still visible today.