from a presumed derivative of μέλω; to take care of, i.e. (by implication) revolve in the mind:--imagine, (pre-)meditate.
Transliteration:meletáō
Pronunciation:mel-et-ah'-o
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb `{{G3191}}` (μελετάω, *meletáō*) derives from a presumed root related to μέλω (*melō*), meaning "to be a care or concern." At its core, `{{G3191}}` signifies "to take care of," implying a focused and intentional engagement with something. This primary sense extends semantically to "revolve in the mind," "pre-meditate," or "imagine" in the sense of devising or planning. It denotes a deliberate and active mental process, not passive contemplation. The thought is not superficial but deep, involving careful consideration, preparation, and often, a practical orientation towards action or development. It suggests a thorough absorption of information or a concept, leading to internal processing and often external manifestation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{G3191}}` appears only once in the New Testament, in Paul's first letter to Timothy:
* **[[1 Timothy 4:15]]**: "Meditate on these things; give yourself wholly to them, that your progress may be evident to all." (μελέτα ἐν τούτοις, ἐν τούτοις ἴσθι, ἵνα σου ἡ προκοπὴ φανερὰ ᾖ πᾶσιν.)
In this crucial passage, Paul exhorts young Timothy, a leader in the early church, to "meditate" (μελετάω) on the truths and instructions previously given, particularly those concerning sound doctrine, godliness, and the duties of a minister (cf. [[1 Timothy 4:6-14]]). The command to "meditate" here is not merely to think about these things casually, but to immerse oneself in them with diligent and continuous application. The accompanying phrase "give yourself wholly to them" (ἐν τούτοις ἴσθι, literally "be in these things") reinforces the intensity and totality of the engagement. The purpose of this deep meditation is explicitly stated: "that your progress may be evident to all" (ἵνα σου ἡ προκοπὴ φανερὰ ᾖ πᾶσιν). This demonstrates that the internal, deliberate mental processing facilitated by `{{G3191}}` is directly linked to observable spiritual and ministerial growth, benefiting both the individual and the wider community. It implies a transformative internal work that yields tangible external results.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of "meditation" in the biblical sense, as conveyed by `{{G3191}}`, resonates with several other Greek and Hebrew terms that describe various forms of thought, study, and reflection:
* **`{{H1897}}` (הָגָה, *hagah*)**: In the Old Testament, particularly the Psalms (e.g., [[Psalm 1:2]], [[Psalm 119:15]], [[Psalm 119:23]]), this Hebrew term often describes the act of "meditating" on God's law or His works. It can imply a low murmur or internal rumination, suggesting a deep, continuous, and often vocalized engagement with the divine word. The Septuagint frequently uses μελετάω to translate הָגָה, establishing a strong conceptual link between the Old Testament practice of meditating on the Torah and the New Testament call for deep engagement with Christian truth.
* **`{{G3309}}` (μεριμνάω, *merimnaō*)**: While often translated as "to be anxious," this word also carries the sense of "to care for" or "to be concerned about." Its connection to μέλω (to be a care) highlights the aspect of careful consideration that is also present in `{{G3191}}`, although μεριμνάω can lean towards worry, whereas `{{G3191}}` focuses on productive, deliberate thought.
* **`{{G3539}}` (νοέω, *noeō*)**: To perceive, understand, or think with the mind. While νοέω refers more to the faculty of understanding, `{{G3191}}` emphasizes the active process of engaging that understanding.
* **`{{G5426}}` (φρονέω, *phroneō*)**: To think, have a mindset, or be minded. This term often describes one's overall disposition or way of thinking, whereas `{{G3191}}` points to a specific, intensive mental activity.
The concept of `{{G3191}}` is thus deeply intertwined with themes of spiritual discipline, diligent study, theological reflection, and the practical application of truth in one's life and ministry.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of `{{G3191}}` in [[1 Timothy 4:15]] carries profound theological weight, particularly for Christian discipleship and ministry. It underscores the necessity of intentional and deep engagement with divine truth.
1. **Transformative Power**: Biblical meditation, as exemplified by `{{G3191}}`, is not an emptying of the mind but a filling of it with God's word and truth. This active processing of truth leads to internal transformation, aligning one's thoughts and will with God's.
2. **Foundation for Growth**: The command to "meditate" is directly linked to "progress" (προκοπὴ, *prokopē*). This highlights that spiritual growth is not automatic but requires diligent effort and focused mental application. For Timothy, this meant growth in godliness, doctrine, and ministerial effectiveness.
3. **Preparation for Ministry**: For those in leadership or ministry, `{{G3191}}` emphasizes the critical need for deep absorption of spiritual realities as a prerequisite for effective service. One cannot genuinely teach or lead without first having thoroughly processed and internalized the truths they proclaim.
4. **Holistic Discipleship**: The instruction to "give yourself wholly to them" alongside "meditate" suggests a holistic approach to discipleship where intellectual engagement leads to full personal commitment and practical living. It is a call to saturate one's entire being in the things of God.
### Summary
The Greek word `{{G3191}}` (μελετάω, *meletáō*) signifies a deep, active, and intentional process of revolving something in the mind, implying careful consideration, preparation, and absorption. Its sole New Testament appearance in [[1 Timothy 4:15]] serves as a pivotal exhortation for diligent spiritual discipline: "Meditate on these things; give yourself wholly to them, that your progress may be evident to all." This command underscores that authentic spiritual growth and effective ministry are not accidental but are the fruit of profound, continuous engagement with divine truth. Drawing parallels with Old Testament concepts of meditating on God's law (`{{H1897}}`), `{{G3191}}` calls believers to a transformative internal work that yields visible progress in their lives and service. It is a call to saturate oneself with God's word, allowing it to profoundly shape one's thoughts, character, and actions.
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