### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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