The Greek word metríōs, represented by G3357, is an adverb meaning moderately or slightly. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Derived from a word related to measurement (μέτρον), its sole function in scripture is to qualify the degree of an emotional state, specifically that of comfort.
The single biblical use of G3357 is found in Acts 20:12. In this passage, after the young man Eutychus is miraculously revived, the text states, "And they brought the young man alive, and were not a little comforted." Here, metríōs is paired with the negative particle G3756, "not." This construction, "not a little," is a form of understatement that serves to express the opposite: the believers were, in fact, greatly and profoundly comforted by this display of life-restoring power.
Several related words from its only context in Acts 20:12 help clarify its meaning:
- G71 ágō: This verb means "to lead; by implication, to bring, drive." It describes the action of the believers as they brought the revived young man back to the group Acts 20:12.
- G3816 paîs: This word for "a boy... or... a child; specially, a slave or servant" refers to the young man at the center of the event Acts 20:12. It is also used to refer to Jesus as God's "Son" or "servant" Acts 3:13.
- G2198 záō: Meaning "to live," this verb confirms the state of the young man as alive Acts 20:12, a term that also describes the "living God" 2 Corinthians 6:16 and the "living sacrifice" believers are called to be Romans 12:1.
- G3870 parakaléō: Defined as "to call near, i.e. invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation)," this is the word for comforted in the passage. It signifies a deep encouragement and consolation Acts 20:12.
- G3756 ou: The absolute negative, "no or not," which directly inverts the meaning of metríōs to emphasize the greatness of the comfort felt by the believers Acts 20:12.
Though rare, the use of G3357 carries theological weight within its specific context.
- Emphasis through Understatement: The phrasing "not a little" (G3756 G3357) is a literary device that powerfully highlights the immeasurable nature of the joy and relief felt by the community. It shows that their comfort was not moderate, but immense.
- Comfort from Divine Power: The great comfort experienced by the believers is a direct result of witnessing the restoration of life Acts 20:12. This points to the profound encouragement that comes from God's power over death, a central tenet of the faith.
- Nature of Christian Encouragement: The comfort described by parakaléō G3870 is more than simple relief; it is an active encouragement that strengthens the faith of the community. This act of being "comforted" is a tangible experience of God's presence and care.
In summary, G3357 metríōs is a word whose significance is defined by its solitary appearance. While its base meaning is "moderately," its use in Acts 20:12 with a negative particle transforms it into a statement of profound magnitude. It serves as a precise and powerful descriptor for the immense comfort that flooded the early believers upon seeing a young man brought back to life, illustrating how even the rarest of biblical words can illuminate deep theological truths about God's power and the nature of Christian hope.
TRV