### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **mestós**, represented by `{{G3324}}`, means to be **replete** or **full**. Of uncertain derivation, this term appears **8 times** across **8 unique verses**. It is used to describe a state of being completely filled, whether with a physical substance or, more often, with an abstract quality or moral state.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3324}}` is applied in both literal and figurative contexts. Literally, it describes a net **full** of great fishes [[John 21:11]] and a vessel **full** of vinegar at the crucifixion [[John 19:29]]. Figuratively, it is a powerful descriptor of a person's inner condition. This can be positive, as when the brethren in Rome are described as "full of **goodness**" [[Romans 15:14]] or when heavenly wisdom is described as "full of **mercy** and good fruits" [[James 3:17]]. Conversely, it often highlights a state of corruption, describing the tongue as "full of **deadly poison**" [[James 3:8]], the unrighteous as "full of **envy**" [[Romans 1:29]], false teachers as having "eyes full of **adultery**" [[2 Peter 2:14]], and hypocrites as being "full of **hypocrisy** and iniquity" [[Matthew 23:28]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words help clarify the concept of being full, whether with virtue or vice:
* `{{G1656}}` **éleos**: This word for **mercy**, defined as "compassion (human or divine, especially active)," is what the wisdom from above is **full** of, demonstrating a key attribute of a divine nature [[James 3:17]].
* `{{G19}}` **agathōsýnē**: Meaning "goodness, i.e. virtue or beneficence," this is the quality that Paul was persuaded the Roman believers were **full** of [[Romans 15:14]].
* `{{G4137}}` **plēróō**: As the verb "to make replete" or "fulfil," this term is closely linked to **mestós**. In [[Romans 15:14]], believers are described as being both "full" (mestós) of goodness and "**filled**" (plēróō) with knowledge.
* `{{G5355}}` **phthónos**: Meaning "ill-will... jealousy (spite)," this term for **envy** is one of the negative qualities that the unrighteous are said to be **full** of [[Romans 1:29]].
* `{{G93}}` **adikía**: This word for **unrighteousness** or "wrongfulness" appears in the same list of vices as envy, establishing the moral state of those who are not filled with God's goodness [[Romans 1:29]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3324}}` lies in its use as a moral and spiritual measure. It illustrates the principle that a person's being is invariably filled with something, revealing their core nature.
* **The Contrast of Inner States:** The word starkly contrasts a life filled with divine attributes against one filled with sin. One can be "full of **goodness**" [[Romans 15:14]] or "full of **envy**" [[Romans 1:29]], leaving no middle ground.
* **Inward Reality vs. Outward Appearance:** The term is used to unmask hypocrisy. In [[Matthew 23:28]], those who appear righteous outwardly are exposed as being inwardly "full of **hypocrisy** and iniquity," emphasizing the biblical focus on the state of the heart over external performance.
* **The Source of Words and Actions:** What one is full of determines their output. The untamed tongue is "full of **deadly poison**" [[James 3:8]], showing that corrupt speech flows from a corrupt inner state. Conversely, wisdom from above is "full of **mercy**" [[James 3:17]], producing good fruits.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3324}}` is a decisive term that moves beyond simple physical capacity to define a person's spiritual and moral character. Whether describing a vessel of vinegar, a net of fish, or a human heart, **mestós** signifies a state of being completely occupied. Its figurative use serves as a powerful reminder that a person is either filled with qualities like mercy and goodness that come from God, or with destructive vices like envy, hypocrisy, and unrighteousness.
TRV