### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **metéchō**, represented by `{{G3348}}`, means **to share or participate**. It appears **10 times** across **8 unique verses** in the Bible. By implication, its meaning extends to the concepts of belonging to something, or to eat or drink as an act of participation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{G3348}}` is used to convey several types of participation. It can signify a fundamental identification, as when Christ **took part** of flesh and blood to be like the children he came to save [[Hebrews 2:14]]. It is used to describe a state of spiritual immaturity, where one who **useth** milk is considered an unskilled babe [[Hebrews 5:13]]. The word also defines association and belonging, as when a priest **pertaineth** to a particular tribe [[Hebrews 7:13]]. In a critical warning, it emphasizes exclusive loyalty, stating that believers cannot **be partakers** of the Lord's table and also the table of devils [[1 Corinthians 10:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of participation:
* `{{G2841}}` **koinōnéō** (to share with others): This term, also translated as "be partaker," emphasizes sharing in a common experience or resource. It is used to describe being **partakers** of Christ's sufferings [[1 Peter 4:13]] and distributing to the needs of the saints [[Romans 12:13]].
* `{{G4095}}` **pínō** (to drink): This word relates to the literal act of partaking mentioned in the definition of `{{G3348}}`. It is used both literally and figuratively, from the warning not to be anxious about what to **drink** [[Matthew 6:25]] to Jesus' invitation for the thirsty to come to him and **drink** [[John 7:37]].
* `{{G5485}}` **cháris** (graciousness): This word is connected to participation in [[1 Corinthians 10:30]], where Paul asks why he is judged if he is a **partaker** by grace. **Cháris** is the divine influence on the heart, and believers are called to the "throne of **grace**" [[Hebrews 4:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G3348}}` is substantial, illustrating key spiritual truths.
* **Incarnational Solidarity:** The word is crucial to understanding the incarnation, as Christ **took part** in flesh and blood, fully identifying with humanity's condition [[Hebrews 2:14]].
* **Corporate Unity:** It establishes the nature of the church as a single body, for believers **are** all **partakers** of that one bread, signifying a shared life in Christ [[1 Corinthians 10:17]].
* **Exclusive Allegiance:** The act of partaking implies loyalty. To **be partakers** of the Lord's table is a declaration of allegiance that is incompatible with partaking at the "table of devils" [[1 Corinthians 10:21]].
* **Hope and Reward:** The word is tied to the believer's hope, as the one who threshes should do so in hope that he will **be partaker** of his hope [[1 Corinthians 9:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3348}}` moves beyond a simple definition of sharing. It is a word that defines identity, spiritual state, and allegiance. From the physical act of partaking in food to the profound mystery of Christ taking on human flesh, and from belonging to a tribe to being united in the body of Christ, **metéchō** illustrates how the act of participation defines one's relationship to a community, whether it be earthly or divine.
TRV