### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **mákellon**, represented by `{{G3111}}`, is of Latin origin and refers to a **butcher's stall**, **meat market**, or **provision-shop**. It is often translated as **shambles**. This word is highly specific, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the biblical text, highlighting its narrow but important contextual application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3111}}` is used to give practical instruction regarding food. The sole appearance in [[1 Corinthians 10:25]] directs believers to **eat** `{{G2068}}` whatever is **sold** `{{G4453}}` in the **shambles**. This is to be done without **asking** `{{G350}}` questions, for the sake of one's **conscience** `{{G4893}}`. This context places the term at the intersection of daily commerce and the ethical choices faced by early Christians concerning food that might have been part of pagan rituals.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its single scriptural context clarify its meaning:
* `{{G4453}}` **pōléō** (to sell): Defined as "to barter (as a pedlar), i.e. to sell," this word establishes the commercial function of the **shambles** where goods are available for purchase [[1 Corinthians 10:25]].
* `{{G2068}}` **esthíō** (to eat): Meaning "to eat (usually literal)," this is the specific action permitted with items obtained from the **shambles** [[1 Corinthians 10:25]].
* `{{G350}}` **anakrínō** (to investigate, interrogate): Defined as to "scrutinize, i.e. (by implication) investigate, interrogate, determine," this is the action to be avoided so as not to trouble one's conscience [[1 Corinthians 10:25]].
* `{{G4893}}` **syneídēsis** (conscience): This term for "moral consciousness" is the central reason for the instruction, emphasizing the believer's internal state over the origin of the food [[1 Corinthians 10:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3111}}` is tied to its specific application concerning Christian liberty.
* **Navigating Secular Spaces:** The instruction regarding the **shambles** in [[1 Corinthians 10:25]] affirms that believers can participate in the common marketplaces of the world without needing to separate themselves from secular commerce.
* **Primacy of Conscience:** The passage links the **shambles** directly to the believer's **conscience** `{{G4893}}`. The issue is not the food itself, but the believer's "moral consciousness," which should not be burdened by unnecessary investigation `{{G350}}`.
* **Liberty in Practice:** The verse provides a practical outworking of Christian freedom. Believers are at liberty to **eat** `{{G2068}}` what is publicly **sold** `{{G4453}}`, with the guiding principle being the preservation of a clear conscience.
### Summary
In summary, **mákellon** `{{G3111}}` is a specific term for a **meat market** or **shambles**. Its single appearance in scripture [[1 Corinthians 10:25]] is significant, providing a direct instruction on Christian conduct regarding food purchased from secular sources. It anchors a key teaching on liberty and conscience, demonstrating how believers are to navigate everyday life with a focus on their inner moral state rather than creating unnecessary external prohibitions.
TRV