### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb μεθερμηνεύω (methermēneúō, `{{G3177}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition μετά (meta), signifying change or transference, and the verb ἑρμηνεύω (hermēneúō, `{{G2059}}`), meaning "to interpret," "to explain," or "to translate." The prefix μετά intensifies or specifies the action of ἑρμηνεύω, indicating a transformation of meaning from one form or language to another. Its core meaning is "to translate," specifically to render a word or phrase from one language into another, thereby making it intelligible to a new audience. Beyond mere linguistic conversion, it carries the semantic range of clarifying or explaining something previously obscure or foreign, ensuring comprehension. It is distinct from simply repeating a word; it actively bridges a linguistic or conceptual gap.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term μεθερμηνεύω appears five times in the New Testament, consistently employed to clarify foreign (Hebrew or Aramaic) names or terms for the benefit of a Greek-speaking audience. Each instance serves to ensure the reader's understanding of a significant word:
* In [[Mark 15:22]], the author explains the location of Jesus' crucifixion: "They brought Jesus to the place called Golgotha (which is translated μεθερμηνεύω Place of a Skull)." This translation clarifies the grim nature of the site.
* [[John 1:42]] records Andrew bringing Simon to Jesus, who renames him: "He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, 'You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas' (which is translated μεθερμηνεύω Peter)." Here, the Aramaic "Cephas" is translated to the Greek "Peter," both meaning "rock," highlighting Simon's future role.
* [[Acts 4:36]] introduces Barnabas: "Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which is translated μεθερμηνεύω Son of Encouragement)." This translation reveals the character and ministry of this early Christian leader.
* In [[Acts 13:8]], the proconsul Sergius Paulus encounters Elymas: "But Elymas the magician (for so his name is translated μεθερμηνεύω) opposed them." The translation of "Elymas" (from Arabic for "wise man" or "magician") explains his profession.
* [[Hebrews 7:2]] clarifies the name of Melchizedek: "To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation μεθερμηνεύω King of Righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is King of Peace." This passage underscores the theological significance embedded in Melchizedek's name, relating it to Christ.
In every biblical occurrence, μεθερμηνεύω functions as a parenthetical explanation, demonstrating the New Testament authors' careful attention to clarity and their desire to make the narrative accessible across linguistic barriers. It is a deliberate act of cross-cultural communication.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is ἑρμηνεύω (hermēneúō, `{{G2059}}`), the base verb from which μεθερμηνεύω is derived. ἑρμηνεύω itself means to interpret, explain, or translate, and it appears in contexts such as interpreting tongues ([[1 Corinthians 12:30]], [[1 Corinthians 14:5]]) or explaining parables. Another closely related term is διερμηνεύω (diermēneúō, `{{G1329}}`), which also means to interpret or translate, often emphasizing the process of interpretation or the act of interpreting for others. While there is significant overlap in meaning, μεθερμηνεύω in the New Testament consistently denotes the direct translation of a word or name, often indicating that the translation *is* the meaning.
The noun ἑρμηνεία (hermēneía, `{{G2058}}`) refers to the act or result of interpretation or translation. Conceptually, μεθερμηνεύω is linked to themes of clarity, understanding, communication, and the bridging of cultural and linguistic divides. It highlights the importance of making divine truth comprehensible to all people, regardless of their linguistic background.
### Theological Significance
The consistent use of μεθερμηνεύω in the New Testament carries significant theological implications. Firstly, it underscores the universal scope of the Gospel message. By translating Hebrew and Aramaic terms into Greek, the authors demonstrate that God's revelation is not confined to one language or culture but is intended for all nations. This reflects the Great Commission's call to make disciples of all ethnic groups ([[Matthew 28:19]]).
Secondly, the practice of translating names and places emphasizes the importance of accurate understanding in matters of faith. The meaning embedded in names like Golgotha, Cephas, Barnabas, Elymas, and Melchizedek is crucial for grasping the full theological weight of the narrative. God desires His truth to be known clearly and precisely.
Thirdly, the act of translation itself can be seen as a micro-analogy for the incarnation. Just as a word is "translated" from one language to another to become comprehensible, so too was the divine Word (Λόγος, `{{G3056}}`) "translated" into human flesh in Jesus Christ ([[John 1:14]]) to make God comprehensible and accessible to humanity. This reflects God's condescension and His desire to communicate intimately with His creation.
Finally, the use of μεθερμηνεύω highlights the multicultural and multilingual context of the early church, where the message of Christ transcended linguistic barriers, fostering unity in diversity.
### Summary
μεθερμηνεύω (methermēneúō, `{{G3177}}`) is a Greek verb meaning "to translate" or "to interpret," specifically indicating the rendering of a word or phrase from one language into another for clarity. Its five occurrences in the New Testament consistently show authors clarifying Hebrew or Aramaic names and terms (e.g., Golgotha, Cephas, Barnabas) for their Greek-speaking audience, ensuring comprehension of significant details. Theologically, this word underscores the universal accessibility of the Gospel, God's desire for clear and accurate understanding of His truth, and the bridging of linguistic and cultural divides, reflecting the incarnational principle of divine truth made comprehensible to humanity. It exemplifies the careful attention of the biblical authors to communicate God's message effectively across diverse audiences.
TRV