### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb μεταμέλλομαι (metaméllomai, `{{G3338}}`) is a compound word derived from μετά (meta), meaning "after" or denoting change, and the middle voice of μέλω (melō), meaning "to care" or "to be an object of care." Literally, it signifies "to care afterwards" or "to be concerned afterwards." This core meaning gives rise to its primary semantic range: to regret, to feel remorse, to have second thoughts, or to change one's mind *after* an action or decision has been made. It describes an emotional or intellectual reaction to a past event, often involving a sense of sorrow or dissatisfaction. Crucially, μεταμέλλομαι denotes a change of feeling or thought, which may or may not lead to a change of action or a full redirection of one's life. This distinguishes it from `{{G3340}}` (metanoéō), which implies a more profound and volitional change of mind that results in a change of conduct or a turning from sin.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
μεταμέλλομαι appears six times in the New Testament, each instance offering distinct insights into its meaning:
* **[[Matthew 21:29]]**: In the parable of the two sons, the first son initially refuses to go work in the vineyard but "afterward he changed his mind [μεταμεληθείς] and went." Here, μεταμέλλομαι describes a change of intention or feeling that leads to a positive action. It is a genuine regret over his initial refusal, prompting obedience.
* **[[Matthew 21:32]]**: Jesus tells the religious leaders that tax collectors and prostitutes believed John, but "you, even after seeing this, did not later change your minds [οὐ μετεμελήθητε] and believe him." This highlights the absence of μεταμέλλομαι – a lack of regret or remorse for their unbelief, preventing them from turning to God.
* **[[Matthew 27:3]]**: This is a pivotal occurrence, describing Judas Iscariot. "When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse [μεταμεληθείς] and returned the thirty pieces of silver." Judas's μεταμέλλομαι signifies intense regret and anguish over the consequences of his betrayal. However, this regret did not lead to repentance unto salvation, but rather to despair and suicide. It was a sorrow of the world, not godly sorrow.
* **[[2 Corinthians 7:8]] (twice)**: Paul writes, "For even if I made you grieve with my letter, I do not regret it [οὐ μεταμέλομαι]—though I did regret it [μετεμελόμην] for a while. For I perceive that the letter made you grieve, though only for a short time." Paul expresses a fleeting, human emotion of regret over causing pain, but ultimately affirms that he does not regret the *outcome* because it led to the Corinthians' godly sorrow and repentance (`{{G3340}}`). This passage beautifully illustrates the transient, emotional nature of μεταμέλλομαι.
* **[[Hebrews 7:21]]**: This verse cites [[Psalm 110:4]] concerning the eternal priesthood of Christ: "The Lord has sworn and will not change his mind [οὐ μεταμεληθήσεται]: 'You are a priest forever, according to the order of Melchizedek.'" This is a crucial theological statement. It affirms God's immutability and the unchangeable nature of His divine oath and purpose. God does not experience regret or second thoughts; His counsel is steadfast.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word is `{{G3340}}` (metanoéō), "to repent." While μεταμέλλομαι describes a change of feeling or regret, `{{G3340}}` denotes a fundamental change of mind, purpose, and direction, leading to a turning from sin to God. One can μεταμέλλομαι without `{{G3340}}`, as seen in Judas's case. μεταμέλλομαι can be a *precursor* to `{{G3340}}`, as a feeling of regret might prompt one to consider true repentance, but it is not synonymous.
Other related concepts include:
* `{{G3077}}` (lypéō), "to grieve" or "to cause sorrow." In [[2 Corinthians 7:9-10]], Paul distinguishes between "godly grief" (which leads to `{{G3340}}` without μεταμέλλομαι) and "worldly grief" (which produces death, akin to Judas's experience). μεταμέλλομαι can be an aspect of either type of grief.
* `{{H5162}}` (nacham) in the Old Testament, often translated "repent" or "relent." While it can describe God "relenting" from a judgment (e.g., [[Exodus 32:14]], [[Jonah 3:10]]), this is an anthropomorphic expression of God's change in *dealing* with humanity based on their response, not a change in His eternal character or purpose. This aligns with the μεταμέλλομαι of God in [[Hebrews 7:21]], affirming His steadfastness.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of μεταμέλλομαι lies primarily in two areas:
1. **The Nature of Human Reponse:** μεταμέλλομαι highlights the nuanced spectrum of human reaction to sin and error. It underscores that mere regret or remorse, while a natural human emotion, is insufficient for salvation. Judas's remorse, though intense, lacked the turning to God that characterizes true repentance. This distinction is crucial for understanding the call to repentance in the Gospel. Godly sorrow (`{{G3077}}`) leads to a repentance (`{{G3340}}`) that brings salvation and "leaves no regret" (μεταμέλλομαι), whereas worldly sorrow brings death ([[2 Corinthians 7:10]]).
2. **The Immutability of God:** The use of μεταμέλλομαι in [[Hebrews 7:21]] is profoundly significant. It asserts that God does not experience regret, change His mind, or alter His divine purposes. His oath concerning Christ's eternal priesthood is unwavering and eternal. This truth provides a bedrock of assurance for believers, emphasizing God's faithfulness, consistency, and the unchangeable nature of His covenant promises. Unlike fickle human emotions, God's will is steadfast and His word immutable.
### Summary
μεταμέλλομαι (`{{G3338}}`) signifies "to care afterwards," resulting in feelings of regret, remorse, or a change of mind about a past action. It describes an emotional or intellectual shift, distinct from the comprehensive turning of one's life that defines true repentance (`{{G3340}}`). While μεταμέλλομαι can sometimes precede and prompt genuine repentance, as seen with the son in the parable ([[Matthew 21:29]]), it is not synonymous with it. Judas Iscariot's experience ([[Matthew 27:3]]) serves as a stark warning that intense regret, if not accompanied by a turning to God, leads only to despair. The most profound theological insight comes from its application to God in [[Hebrews 7:21]], affirming His divine immutability and the unwavering nature of His promises and eternal will. God does not μεταμέλλομαι. This word, therefore, offers critical insight into both the complexities of human spiritual experience and the steadfast character of the Almighty.
TRV