### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **methýskō**, represented by `{{G3182}}`, is a verb meaning **to intoxicate** or **to be drunk(-en)**. This prolonged form of a related word appears **4 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. It specifically describes the action or resulting state of becoming intoxicated.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G3182}}` serves as a consistent warning against indulgence. The Apostle Paul issues a direct command in [[Ephesians 5:18]], stating, "be not **drunk** with wine, wherein is excess," contrasting this state directly with being filled with the Spirit. In a parable, the unfaithful servant's decline is marked when he begins to "eat and drink, and to be **drunken**" [[Luke 12:45]], showing a clear link between intoxication and unfaithfulness. The term is also used to characterize those who belong to the "night," noting that "they that be **drunken** are drunken in the night" [[1 Thessalonians 5:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context of `{{G3182}}`:
* `{{G3184}}` **methýō** (to drink to intoxication, i.e. get drunk): Used in close parallel with `{{G3182}}`, this word describes those who "are **drunken** in the night" [[1 Thessalonians 5:7]] and is also used figuratively, as in being "made **drunk** with the wine of her fornication" [[Revelation 17:2]].
* `{{G3631}}` **oînos** (wine): The agent of intoxication explicitly mentioned in the command not to be drunk with **wine** [[Ephesians 5:18]]. It is also used symbolically to refer to "the **wine** of the wrath of God" [[Revelation 14:10]].
* `{{G4095}}` **pínō** (to imbibe): This general verb for drinking often precedes the state of intoxication, as seen in the servant who begins to eat and **drink**, and then to be drunken [[Luke 12:45]].
* `{{G810}}` **asōtía** (excess, riot): This term defines the consequence of being drunk with wine in [[Ephesians 5:18]]. It connects intoxication with profligacy and an "unsavedness" of lifestyle.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3182}}` is significant in its portrayal of a spiritual condition to be avoided.
* **Opposition to Spiritual Fullness:** The word's use in [[Ephesians 5:18]] establishes a clear dichotomy: one can either be **drunken** with wine or filled with the Spirit, but not both. Intoxication is presented as a fleshly state antithetical to a life led by the Spirit.
* **Sign of Unfaithfulness:** Being **drunken** is a primary behavior of the wicked servant who has lost sight of his master's impending return [[Luke 12:45]]. It symbolizes a life of carnal indulgence and neglect of spiritual duty.
* **An Activity of Darkness:** The state of being **drunken** is explicitly associated with the "night" [[1 Thessalonians 5:7]], which stands in contrast to the "day" to which believers belong. This reinforces the need for spiritual alertness and sobriety.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3182}}` is more than a simple description of intoxication; it is a spiritual warning sign. It is consistently used to illustrate a state of being that is incompatible with spiritual alertness, faithfulness, and a life filled with the Spirit. The term serves as a call to reject worldly indulgence in favor of a sober and watchful spiritual posture.
TRV