### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **meletáō**, represented by `{{G3191}}`, describes the act of taking care of something by revolving it in the mind. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses**, where it is translated as to **premeditate**, **meditate**, or **imagine**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its scriptural usage, `{{G3191}}` appears in contrasting contexts. In Mark, believers are instructed not to **premeditate** `{{G3191}}` what they will say when delivered up for their faith, but to trust the Holy Ghost [[Mark 13:11]]. Conversely, Paul commands Timothy to **meditate upon** `{{G3191}}` spiritual truths so that his profiting may appear to all [[1 Timothy 4:15]]. In Acts, the word is used to describe how the heathen **imagine** `{{G3191}}` vain things in rebellion [[Acts 4:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G3191}}` in its different applications:
* `{{G4305}}` **promerimnáō** (to care (anxiously) in advance): Used in direct parallel with `{{G3191}}`, this word emphasizes a command against anxious forethought, contrasting it with reliance on the Holy Spirit's guidance [[Mark 13:11]].
* `{{G4297}}` **prokopḗ** (progress, i.e. advancement): This word is presented as the positive outcome of proper meditation. Timothy is to meditate on doctrine so that his **profiting** becomes manifest [[1 Timothy 4:15]].
* `{{G2756}}` **kenós** (empty (literally or figuratively)): This describes the object of futile imagination. The people are said to imagine **vain things** `{{G2756}}`, highlighting the emptiness of thought that is not aligned with God's will [[Acts 4:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3191}}` is seen in its contrasting applications.
* **Reliance on the Spirit:** In times of persecution, believers are commanded not to **premeditate** `{{G3191}}` their defense. This is a call to forsake self-reliant preparation and instead trust in the words given by the Holy Spirit in that very hour [[Mark 13:11]].
* **A Tool for Spiritual Growth:** The word is used as a direct command for spiritual discipline. Paul instructs Timothy to **meditate** `{{G3191}}` on divine matters to ensure his spiritual **profiting** `{{G4297}}` is visible to all [[1 Timothy 4:15]].
* **Contrast with Futile Thinking:** The concept is also used to illustrate rebellious and pointless thought. The nations who **rage** `{{G5433}}` are described as those who **imagine** `{{G3191}}` vain things, demonstrating that mental energy directed against God is ultimately empty [[Acts 4:25]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3191}}` is a term whose significance depends entirely on its object and context. It can describe a forbidden, anxious self-reliance [[Mark 13:11]], a required spiritual exercise for growth [[1 Timothy 4:15]], or the futile plotting of those who oppose God [[Acts 4:25]]. The word illustrates the critical distinction between God-centered meditation that leads to profiting and worldly imagination that results in vanity.
TRV