adverb from a derivative of μέτρον; moderately, i.e. slightly:--a little.
Transliteration:metríōs
Pronunciation:met-ree'-oce
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adverb μετρίως (G3357, transliterated as *metríōs*) is derived from a word related to `{{G3358}}` (μέτρον, *metron*), meaning "measure." Its core meaning, therefore, relates to being "according to measure" or "within due bounds." As an adverb, it signifies "moderately," "temperately," or "within limits." The provided definition, "moderately, i.e. slightly:--a little," further refines its semantic range to indicate a limited or restrained degree, rather than an excessive one. It can convey nuances such as "somewhat," "to a small extent," or "not much," often implying a careful limitation or a lack of full sufficiency rather than absolute scarcity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The adverb μετρίως (G3357) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[Acts 27:12]]. However, it is crucial to note that its presence is limited to certain textual traditions, notably the Textus Receptus (TR), upon which translations like the King James Version (KJV) are based. Modern critical editions of the Greek New Testament (e.g., NA28, UBS5) do not include this word in [[Acts 27:12]].
* **[[Acts 27:12]] (Textus Receptus/KJV context):** "And because the harbour was not commodious to winter in, the more part advised to depart thence, if by any means they might attain to Phenice, and there to winter; which is an harbour of Crete, and lieth toward the south west and north west."
* In the Greek Textus Receptus, the phrase reads: "μὴ ὄντος δὲ τοῦ λιμένος *μετρίως* πρὸς παραχειμασίαν..." (literally, "the harbor not being *moderately* suitable for wintering...").
* **Contextual Analysis:** Paul and his companions are at Fair Havens, a harbor in Crete. The ship's crew and passengers are debating whether to remain there for the winter or attempt to reach another harbor. The inclusion of μετρίως in the TR indicates that Fair Havens was deemed "not *moderately* suitable" or "not *sufficiently* suitable" for winter. This implies that while it might offer some shelter, it did not meet a reasonable standard of safety or comfort for an extended stay during harsh weather. The nuance of "a little" or "slightly" here means that it was not even "a little bit" or "to any moderate degree" suitable, thus prompting the decision to seek a better location. This highlights a practical assessment of conditions that ultimately plays into the unfolding of divine purpose.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **`{{G3358}}` (μέτρον - *metron*):** As the root noun, *metron* signifies "measure," "due measure," "limit," or "standard." The connection to μετρίως underscores the idea of something being "according to measure" or "within a proper measure," whether positively or, as in [[Acts 27:12]], negatively (not meeting the measure).
* **`{{G2425}}` (ἱκανός - *hikanos*):** This adjective means "sufficient," "adequate," or "competent." The concept of "not μετρίως suitable" implies a lack of *hikanos* (sufficiency) for the given purpose.
* **Temperance and Self-Control:** While μετρίως describes a degree or state, the broader biblical concept of living "within measure" is central to virtues like temperance or self-control (e.g., `{{G1466}}`, ἐγκράτεια, *enkrateia*). Though not directly linked to the adverb's meaning, the underlying principle of avoiding excess and living with discernment is a pervasive theme in Christian ethics.
### Theological Significance
Given its single, textually debated occurrence, μετρίως does not carry a profound or extensive theological weight on its own. Its significance is primarily found in its linguistic contribution to a specific narrative context.
* **Divine Providence and Human Prudence:** The account in [[Acts 27:12]] illustrates the interplay between human assessment and divine will. The decision to move from Fair Havens, based on the harbor's perceived inadequacy, leads directly to the shipwreck foretold by Paul and the subsequent opportunities for evangelism. Even seemingly mundane details, such as the "moderate" suitability of a harbor, can be part of God's intricate plan to bring about His purposes. It subtly reminds us that God works through and often with human decisions and practical considerations.
* **The Principle of Measure:** The etymological link to `{{G3358}}` (μέτρον) connects μετρίως to a broader biblical principle of "measure" or "proportion." While the adverb itself doesn't teach this, the root concept of a standard or limit is fundamental to God's created order and His expectations for human conduct. God often works according to divine measure, and believers are called to live with spiritual discernment, avoiding excess and embracing moderation in all things (cf. [[Philippians 4:5]]).
### Summary
The Greek adverb μετρίως (G3357) means "moderately" or "to a little extent," deriving from the concept of "measure." Its sole New Testament appearance is in [[Acts 27:12]], though its inclusion depends on the textual tradition (present in Textus Receptus, absent in critical editions). In this context, it describes the harbor at Fair Havens as "not *moderately* suitable" for wintering, indicating its inadequacy. While not a word with extensive theological development, its presence in the narrative of Acts highlights the role of human prudence and practical assessment within the larger framework of God's sovereign plan. It subtly points to the broader biblical principle of "measure" as a standard for evaluation and conduct, a concept deeply embedded in the divine order and human responsibility.
TRV