### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **metabállō**, represented by `{{G3328}}`, literally means to throw over, but is used figuratively to describe turning about in opinion or to **change mind**. This term is highly specific, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular use highlights a dramatic and sudden shift in perspective.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G3328}}` is in the narrative of Paul's shipwreck on Malta. After Paul is bitten by a viper, the local inhabitants initially **looked** for him to have "swollen, or fallen down dead suddenly." However, after observing him for a long time and seeing that no harm came to him, they dramatically **changed their minds** and said that he was a god [[Acts 28:6]]. This usage demonstrates a complete reversal of opinion based on direct observation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the immediate context of [[Acts 28:6]] help to frame the action of `{{G3328}}`:
* `{{G4328}}` **prosdokáō** (to anticipate (in thought, hope or fear); by implication, to await): This word describes the islanders' initial state of mind as they **looked for** or awaited Paul's impending death. Their expectation sets up the subsequent change.
* `{{G2334}}` **theōréō** (to be a spectator of, i.e. discern, (literally, figuratively (experience) or intensively (acknowledge))): After their expectation was not met, they **saw** or perceived that Paul was unharmed. This act of seeing is the direct catalyst for their change of mind.
* `{{G3004}}` **légō** (to "lay" forth, i.e. (figuratively) relate (in words)): This verb is used for their final declaration. After changing their minds, they **said** that he was a god, vocalizing their new belief.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3328}}` is found entirely within its context in [[Acts 28:6]].
* **Human Judgment vs. Divine Power:** The event shows how human expectation, based on natural understanding, is overturned by a display of divine preservation. The "change of mind" is a direct reaction to witnessing something beyond normal experience.
* **The Catalyst for Belief:** The islanders' observation that Paul suffered "no harm" [[Acts 28:6]] served as the evidence that forced their change of mind. However, their new conclusion was to deify the man, not to recognize the God who protected him.
* **The Nature of Opinion:** The use of **metabállō** underscores the sudden and complete reversal of opinion. It illustrates how perception can be instantly transformed when confronted with the unexpected, moving from one extreme conclusion to another.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3328}}` **metabállō** is a precise term used once in scripture to convey a complete and sudden "change of mind." Its sole appearance in [[Acts 28:6]] captures the dramatic moment when observers, after expecting Paul to die, instead proclaimed him a god. While rare, it powerfully illustrates how observable evidence can instantly overturn human judgment and expectation, leading to a radical shift in belief.
TRV