### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **metamorphóō**, represented by `{{G3339}}`, means **to transform, change, or transfigure**. It is a potent term used to describe a profound change in form or nature. This word appears **4 times** in **4 unique verses**, highlighting its specific and significant applications in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3339}}` is used in two primary ways. Firstly, it describes the physical and glorious transfiguration of Jesus on the mountain. This event, witnessed by Peter, James, and John, was a literal change where Jesus **was transfigured** before them [[Mark 9:2]]. His face was seen to **shine** as the sun, and his clothing became as white as **light** `{{G5457}}` [[Matthew 17:2]]. Secondly, it is used figuratively to describe the spiritual transformation of a believer. Believers are commanded not to be conformed to the world but to **be ye transformed** by the renewing of their minds [[Romans 12:2]]. This ongoing process changes believers into the same **image** `{{G1504}}` of the Lord [[2 Corinthians 3:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature of this transformation:
* `{{G4964}}` **syschēmatízō** (to fashion alike, i.e. conform to the same pattern): This word is used in direct contrast to transformation, commanding believers *not* to be **conformed** to this world [[Romans 12:2]].
* `{{G342}}` **anakaínōsis** (renovation): This term identifies the mechanism of a believer's transformation, which occurs through the **renewing** of the mind [[Romans 12:2]].
* `{{G1504}}` **eikṓn** (a likeness, i.e. (literally) statue, profile, or (figuratively) representation, resemblance): This word defines the goal of the believer's transformation, which is to be changed into the Lord's **image** [[2 Corinthians 3:18]].
* `{{G3563}}` **noûs** (the intellect, i.e. mind): This is the faculty that undergoes renewal for transformation to take place, enabling believers to prove God's will [[Romans 12:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3339}}` is significant, pointing to both Christ's nature and the Christian's journey.
* **Divine Revelation:** The transfiguration of Jesus was not the acquisition of a new glory, but the momentary unveiling of His true, divine nature. His face **did shine** `{{G2989}}` with a brilliance that was inherently His [[Matthew 17:2]].
* **Spiritual Metamorphosis:** For the believer, transformation is an internal process. It requires a decisive break from conforming `{{G4964}}` to the world's patterns and is achieved by the **renewing** `{{G342}}` of the **mind** `{{G3563}}` [[Romans 12:2]].
* **Progressive Sanctification:** The change described in [[2 Corinthians 3:18]] is a continuous one, moving "from glory to glory." It is a progressive transformation into the **image** `{{G1504}}` of the Lord, accomplished by the Spirit.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3339}}` encapsulates a fundamental change of form and substance. It uniquely describes the radiant display of Christ's divine glory during His transfiguration and, in parallel, illustrates the believer's spiritual journey. This is a transformation away from worldly conformity and toward an inner renewal of the mind, with the ultimate purpose of reflecting the very image of the Lord.
TRV