The Greek word metréō, represented by G3354, is defined as to measure or admeasure, meaning to ascertain size by a fixed standard or to allot by rule. It is also used figuratively to estimate. This word appears 10 times across 9 unique verses in the Bible, establishing it as a key term for concepts of both literal measurement and figurative judgment.
In scripture, G3354 is used in two primary contexts. First, it establishes a principle of divine reciprocity, where the standard one uses for others is applied back to them. This is seen in the teaching that with the same measure you mete, it will be measured to you again (Matthew 7:2, Mark 4:24). Second, it is used in the book of Revelation for the literal act of measuring sanctified spaces and people. An angel commands the measurement of the temple of God, the altar, and its worshipers Revelation 11:1, as well as the holy city, its gates, and its walls Revelation 21:15. In contrast, some are explicitly not to be measured, such as those who compare themselves by their own standard, who are described as "not wise" 2 Corinthians 10:12.
Several related Greek words help clarify the meaning of G3354:
- G3358 métron (measure): As the root word of metréō, this noun represents the standard or limited portion being used. It appears directly alongside the verb in passages about reciprocity, such as "with what measure ye mete" Mark 4:24.
- G488 antimetréō (to mete in return): This compound verb emphasizes the reciprocal nature of measuring. It is used to complete the principle stated in the Gospels, promising that the standard used will be "measured to you again" Luke 6:38.
- G2563 kálamos (a reed): This word refers to the physical instrument used for measuring in the book of Revelation. John is given a reed to measure the temple Revelation 11:1, and an angel uses a golden reed to measure the New Jerusalem Revelation 21:15.
The theological weight of G3354 is significant, highlighting key spiritual principles.
- The Standard of Judgment: The word is directly linked with judgment G2917. The principle that the "measure" we mete out will be measured back to us establishes a clear connection between human action and divine consequence Matthew 7:2.
- Divine Evaluation: In Revelation, the act of measuring is a form of divine assessment. It is used to define the boundaries of what is holy—the temple, the city, and the worshipers G4352—while explicitly excluding the outer court which is given to the Gentiles Revelation 11:2.
- Generosity and Blessing: The concept of measuring is tied to giving. Generosity is met with an abundant return, described as a "good measure, pressed down G4085, and shaken together G4531, and running over G5240" Luke 6:38.
In summary, G3354 conveys a concept that extends from the literal to the spiritual. Whether using a reed G2563 to ascertain the dimensions of the holy city or figuratively applying a standard of judgment to others, the word carries a consistent theme of accountability. It teaches that the standards we choose to apply—in judgment, in generosity, and in self-evaluation—become the very standards by which we ourselves are measured.
TRV