### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun μετάλημψις (transliterated as *metálēmpsis*, `{{G3336}}`) is derived from the verb μεταλαμβάνω (*metalambanō*, `{{G3335}}`), which means "to take a share of," "to partake of," or "to receive." Consequently, μετάλημψις signifies the *act* of participation, reception, or the taking of a share. It denotes an active appropriation or a joint experience, implying that something is received or taken for oneself, often with the implication of sharing in its benefits or nature. The prefix "μετα-" (meta-) often implies a change of state, a sharing, or a participation *with* or *from* something, distinguishing it from a simple act of taking.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term μετάλημψις (`{{G3336}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[1 Timothy 4:3]]. The passage reads: "forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from foods which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth."
In this context, Paul is addressing false teachers who promote ascetic practices, such as forbidding marriage and abstaining from certain foods. The phrase "εἰς μετάλημψιν" (*eis metálēmpsin*), translated as "to be received" or "for reception," directly counters this asceticism. Paul asserts that God created foods (and by extension, other good things like marriage) not for rejection or rigid abstinence, but specifically *for reception* by believers. The crucial qualifier "with thanksgiving" (μετὰ εὐχαριστίας) further defines the nature of this reception, indicating that it is to be marked by gratitude and acknowledgment of God as the benevolent provider. The word here underscores the legitimate and intended use of God's creation, emphasizing its inherent goodness when appropriated by those who possess faith and knowledge of the truth.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root, μεταλαμβάνω (*metalambanō*, `{{G3335}}`), from which μετάλημψις is formed. This verb is used in various contexts to denote the act of partaking or receiving, such as partaking of food ([[Acts 2:46]], [[Acts 27:33]]) or receiving a blessing from God ([[Hebrews 6:7]]).
Other related concepts that convey aspects of sharing or participation include:
* **κοινωνία** (*koinōnia*, `{{G2842}}`): Fellowship, communion, or sharing, often implying a deeper bond or shared life.
* **μέτοχος** (*metochos*, `{{G3353}}`): A partner or partaker, referring to the one who shares in something.
* **λαμβάνω** (*lambanō*, `{{G2983}}`): The more general verb "to take" or "to receive," without the specific nuance of "meta-" implying participation or a change of state.
* **μερίς** (*meris*, `{{G3310}}`): A part or share, referring to a portion rather than the act of taking.
In [[1 Timothy 4:3]], μετάλημψις stands in stark contrast to the concept of *abstention* or *rejection*, which the false teachers advocated. It champions the proper, grateful appropriation of God's good gifts.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of μετάλημψις in [[1 Timothy 4:3]] carries profound theological weight, particularly concerning Christian anthropology and the doctrine of creation.
1. **Affirmation of Creation's Goodness:** The word serves as a powerful affirmation of the inherent goodness of God's creation. Against those who would spiritualize faith by denigrating the material world, Paul asserts that God created all things, including food and marriage, to be *received* and enjoyed. This counters any dualistic worldview that deems matter as inherently evil or defiling.
2. **Rejection of Ascetic Heresy:** It directly refutes the legalistic and Gnostic-leaning asceticism that often crept into early Christian communities. True godliness is not found in self-denial of God's good gifts, but in their grateful reception. This principle establishes a foundation for Christian liberty, freeing believers from burdensome human-made regulations.
3. **Theology of Thanksgiving:** The inseparable pairing of "μετάλημψις" with "μετὰ εὐχαριστίας" (with thanksgiving) is critical. It transforms mere consumption or use into an act of worship. Receiving God's gifts is not passive but active, marked by a heart of gratitude that acknowledges the divine Giver. This teaches believers to view all of life's provisions as blessings from God, to be enjoyed responsibly and reverently.
4. **Practical Piety:** It underscores that genuine piety is not about external prohibitions but about internal disposition—a grateful heart that recognizes God's sovereignty and benevolence in all things.
### Summary
The Greek word μετάλημψις (`{{G3336}}`), derived from the verb "to partake," signifies the act of participation, reception, or taking a share. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[1 Timothy 4:3]] is highly significant. In this passage, Paul employs μετάλημψις to counter false ascetic teachings, asserting that God created foods (and by extension, all good things) to be *received* by believers with thanksgiving. This word thus encapsulates several vital theological truths: the inherent goodness of God's creation, the rejection of legalistic prohibitions, and the importance of a grateful heart in appropriating divine provisions. It champions Christian liberty and a holistic understanding of spirituality that embraces God's gifts rather than denying them.
TRV