Summary
Quick facts
- Strong’s Number
- G3374
- Original Word
- μηλωτή
- Transliteration
- mēlōtḗ
- Pronunciation
- may-lo-tay'
- Part of Speech
- noun
- Category
- Creation, Unique Words
- Root / Etymology
- from (a sheep);
- Frequency
- 1×
- Gematria
- 1186
Where it appears
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Definition
Strong 1890 a sheep-skin
sheepskin
from (a sheep);

Commentary
Contributors: · · · ·
Unveiling the Word
Understanding Greek words in biblical studies provides deep insight into the context, culture, and significance of the text. The word μηλωτή (transliterated mēlōtē) is especially important because it is used in the book of Hebrews (11:37), a chapter often referred to as the "Hall of Faith." In this verse, the word refers to a garment made from sheep or goat skins, symbolizing the hardships and persecution endured by the prophets and martyrs. The usage of this word sheds light on the suffering endured by righteous individuals throughout biblical history, making it a key term for understanding both the practical and symbolic aspects of ancient life and spiritual endurance.
Necessary Information
Greek Word: μηλωτή (mēlōtē), pronounced may-lo-TAY. This noun directly refers to a skin garment, typically made from the hide of a sheep or goat.
Etymology: The root word comes from the Greek noun μήλον (mēlon), meaning "sheep" or "goat." This clearly ties the word to a physical object—an animal's skin used for clothing. Its broader application refers to the hardships associated with those who wore such garments.
Part of Speech: μηλωτή is a feminine noun. As a noun, it functions to describe a tangible object—a garment made from an animal’s skin.
The F.O.G. Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Defining Meanings
Exploring Similar Words
Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
Case, Number, Gender: μηλωτή is a first-declension feminine noun. It can appear in different cases depending on its grammatical role in a sentence:
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As it is a feminine noun, it adheres to the first declension pattern typical of many Greek words for common objects or items.
Declension Table:
Click here for a beginner's guide to reading Greek.
Studying Lexicon Insights
The term mēlōtē appears across multiple Greek lexicons, consistently referring to a skin garment, typically made from sheep or goats. In biblical and classical literature, this term frequently indicates the humble or rugged nature of the wearer. In the context of Hebrews 11:37, the word emphasizes the simplicity and suffering of those who wore such clothing, often as a sign of their rejection by society for their prophetic role. The garment, a symbol of affliction, speaks to the enduring faith of individuals who lived outside of societal privileges, enduring persecution for their testimony.
This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.
Tracing Related Scriptures
Analyzing Classical Usage
Noteworthy Summary
The Greek word mēlōtē (G3374) describes a simple garment made of animal skin, often used to symbolize the persecution and suffering endured by prophets and martyrs in the Bible. In Hebrews 11:37, the word encapsulates both physical and spiritual suffering endured for faith. Understanding this word enriches the context of biblical passages and highlights the humility and hardship of key figures in Scripture.
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