of uncertain derivation; replete (literally or figuratively):--full.
Transliteration:mestós
Pronunciation:mes-tos'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective μεστός (transliterated as *mestós*) carries the core meaning of being "replete," "filled," or "full." Its derivation is noted as uncertain, yet its semantic range is clearly established in both secular and biblical Greek. It denotes a state of being completely occupied or saturated, whether in a literal, physical sense or a more abstract, figurative manner. Unlike verbs of filling (e.g., πληρόω `{{G4137}}`), μεστός describes the *state* of being full, emphasizing the accomplished condition of repletion. This fullness can be quantitative (e.g., a net full of fish), qualitative (e.g., full of goodness), or even indicative of a pervasive characteristic (e.g., full of eyes, full of blasphemy). The term suggests an abundance or saturation that leaves no room for anything further or different, highlighting the dominant quality or quantity present.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term μεστός appears a limited number of times in the New Testament, but each instance provides significant contextual insight into its usage:
* **Literal Fullness:** In [[John 21:11]], the disciples' fishing net is described as μεστός – "full of large fish." Here, the word conveys a tangible, physical repletion, emphasizing the miraculous abundance of the catch. The net was so full that it could barely be drawn, underscoring the sheer quantity.
* **Figurative Fullness (Positive):** [[Romans 15:14]] presents a beautiful figurative application. Paul expresses his conviction that the believers in Rome are μεστοί – "full of goodness" and "filled with all knowledge." This speaks to their moral and intellectual maturity, indicating a pervasive quality of virtue and understanding within them. It implies a spiritual completeness or a state where these positive attributes are abundantly present.
* **Figurative Fullness (Negative):** Conversely, μεστός is employed to describe negative or undesirable states:
* In [[James 3:8]], the tongue is described as μεστὴ – "full of deadly poison." This vivid metaphor highlights the destructive potential of uncontrolled speech, likening its venomous nature to a saturation of lethal substance. The image conveys the pervasive and corrupting influence of the tongue when it is not bridled.
* In the Book of Revelation, the term frequently describes entities marked by negative attributes:
* The four living creatures are μεστοὶ – "full of eyes" around and within ([[Revelation 4:6]], [[Revelation 4:8]]), signifying their omniscience and constant vigilance in the presence of God. While not inherently negative, the context of judgment and divine power can imbue this fullness with awe and even terror for the unrighteous.
* The beast from the sea is μεστὸν – "full of blasphemous names" ([[Revelation 17:3]]), indicating its complete identification with rebellion against God. Its very essence is defined by blasphemy.
* The great harlot's golden cup is μεστὸν – "full of abominations and the unclean things of her fornication" ([[Revelation 17:4]]), portraying her utter depravity and the pervasive nature of her spiritual corruption. This fullness underscores the depth of her wickedness.
These varied contexts demonstrate μεστός's versatility in depicting a state of absolute saturation, whether physical, moral, intellectual, or spiritual, and whether for good or ill.
### Related Words & Concepts
μεστός is one of several Greek words that convey the concept of "fullness," each with its own nuance.
* **πληρόω `{{G4137}}` (verb, "to fill," "to complete")** and **πλήρωμα `{{G4138}}` (noun, "fullness," "completion")**: These terms often speak of a process of filling or the resulting state of being filled to a designated capacity or purpose. πληρόω emphasizes the action or process, while πλήρωμα denotes the state of completion or that which fills. μεστός, by contrast, describes the *condition* of being full, often implying an overflow or complete saturation beyond mere completion. For instance, Christ is the πλήρωμα of the Godhead, embodying divine fullness, whereas a net might be μεστός with fish.
* **γέμω `{{G1073}}` (verb, "to be full," "to be laden")**: This verb is often used for physical fullness, particularly in the sense of being laden or burdened. For example, a boat full of fish might be described with γέμω. While similar to the literal use of μεστός, γέμω emphasizes the weight or burden of being full, whereas μεστός simply describes the state of repletion.
* **Concepts of Abundance and Sufficiency**: μεστός connects to broader biblical concepts of abundance (e.g., God's provision, spiritual blessings) and sufficiency (e.g., God's grace being sufficient). When applied to positive attributes (like goodness or knowledge), it points to a generous and ample supply. When applied negatively, it highlights an overwhelming presence of sin or corruption.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of μεστός lies in its capacity to describe states of complete saturation, both positive and negative, which have profound implications for human character, divine judgment, and spiritual reality.
* **Character and Maturity**: When believers are described as μεστοὶ of goodness and knowledge ([[Romans 15:14]]), it speaks to a spiritual maturity where virtues are not merely present but are deeply ingrained and pervasive. This "fullness" signifies a life transformed by the Spirit, where Christ-like qualities are abundant and evident. It points to the ideal of a Christian life fully yielded to God, characterized by integrity and wisdom.
* **The Nature of Evil**: The repeated use of μεστός in Revelation to describe entities "full of blasphemous names" or "full of abominations" underscores the pervasive and inherent nature of evil in opposition to God. It is not merely an occasional act but a defining characteristic, revealing a state of utter spiritual corruption. This highlights the comprehensive nature of sin's grip on fallen creation and the forces aligned against God.
* **Divine Revelation and Judgment**: The living creatures "full of eyes" ([[Revelation 4:6]], [[Revelation 4:8]]) symbolize God's omniscient and omnipresent awareness, crucial for His righteous judgment. This "fullness" of vision speaks to the impossibility of anything being hidden from God. The "fullness" of the harlot's cup and the beast's blasphemy also sets the stage for divine judgment, as their complete saturation in evil necessitates a comprehensive divine response.
In essence, μεστός serves as a powerful descriptor of inherent qualities, whether divinely imparted or morally chosen, revealing the true nature and ultimate trajectory of individuals or entities.
### Summary
The Greek word μεστός (`{{G3324}}`, *mestós*) signifies a state of being "full" or "replete," encompassing both literal and figurative applications. Its usage in the New Testament ranges from describing a fishing net "full of large fish" ([[John 21:11]]) to portraying believers "full of goodness and knowledge" ([[Romans 15:14]]). Crucially, it also vividly depicts negative saturation, such as the tongue being "full of deadly poison" ([[James 3:8]]) or the beast "full of blasphemous names" ([[Revelation 17:3]]). Unlike verbs of filling, μεστός emphasizes the accomplished condition of repletion, highlighting the pervasive presence of a quality or quantity. Theologically, it illuminates the depth of spiritual maturity in believers, the inherent corruption of evil, and the comprehensive nature of divine attributes and judgment, always pointing to a complete and undeniable state of being.
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