### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **μεσόω (mesóō)**, represented by `{{G3322}}`, is defined as to form the middle or, in a temporal sense, to be half-way over. It is derived from μέσος and is translated as "be about the midst." This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G3322}}` occurs in [[John 7:14]], where it establishes a precise point in time during a religious festival. The verse states, "Now about the **midst of** the feast Jesus went up into the temple, and taught." This usage marks the halfway point of the feast as the moment Jesus `{{G2424}}` chose to go up `{{G305}}` into the temple `{{G2411}}` and begin to teach `{{G1321}}`. Its function is to provide a specific temporal context for a significant action in Jesus' public ministry.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the surrounding verse help to clarify the context of this event:
* `{{G2235}}` **ḗdē** (Now): This word means "even now" or "already," signaling the arrival of the specific moment for the action to occur.
* `{{G1859}}` **heortḗ** (feast): Defined as a festival or holyday, this is the religious event that provides the setting for the narrative.
* `{{G305}}` **anabaínō** (went up): Meaning to go up, ascend, or climb, this describes Jesus' physical movement into the temple precincts.
* `{{G2411}}` **hierón** (temple): This refers to a sacred place, specifically the entire precincts of the Temple at Jerusalem.
* `{{G1321}}` **didáskō** (taught): This word means to teach and identifies the central activity Jesus engaged in upon entering the temple.
### Theological Significance
While `{{G3322}}` is a simple marker of time, its context carries theological weight by highlighting the deliberate nature of Christ's ministry.
* **Strategic Timing:** The placement of Jesus' teaching "in the midst of the feast" [[John 7:14]] suggests a purposeful and strategic moment, rather than a random one, for his public instruction in the temple.
* **Public Ministry:** By going up into the temple `{{G2411}}`, the center of Jewish worship, to teach `{{G1321}}`, Jesus asserts his role as a public teacher. He repeats this action later in the same chapter [[John 7:28]].
* **Focal Point of the Feast:** The timing places Jesus' teaching as the central event of the feast `{{G1859}}`. The narrative frames his arrival and instruction as a pivotal moment within the larger religious observance.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3322}}` is a word whose significance is derived entirely from its singular context. While it simply means "the midst of," its use in [[John 7:14]] serves to anchor a key moment in the ministry of Jesus. It pinpoints the time he chose to publicly teach in the temple, transforming an ordinary temporal marker into a signpost for a theologically significant event.
TRV