### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **mēlōtḗ**, represented by `{{G3374}}`, is defined as a **sheep-skin**. Derived from the word for sheep, this term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its singular usage points to a very specific image of rustic clothing tied to hardship and persecution.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G3374}}` is in [[Hebrews 11:37]], within a powerful description of the suffering endured by figures of faith. The verse recounts that these individuals were stoned `{{G3034}}`, sawn asunder `{{G4249}}`, tempted `{{G3985}}`, and slain with the sword `{{G5408}}``{{G3162}}`. In this context of extreme trial, they **wandered about** `{{G4022}}` in **sheepskins** `{{G3374}}` and goatskins. Their state is further described as being **destitute** `{{G5302}}`, **afflicted** `{{G2346}}`, and **tormented** `{{G2558}}`, positioning the sheepskin as a symbol of their outcast and impoverished condition.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its biblical context illuminate the meaning of wearing a **sheepskin**:
* `{{G122}}` **aígeios** (belonging to a goat): Used alongside `{{G3374}}` in [[Hebrews 11:37]] to form the phrase "in sheepskins and goatskins," it emphasizes the primitive and rough nature of their attire.
* `{{G4022}}` **periérchomai** (to come all around, i.e. stroll, vacillate, veer): This describes the action of those wearing the sheepskins, highlighting a life of wandering and instability forced upon them by persecution.
* `{{G5302}}` **hysteréō** (to fall short (be deficient)): This word clarifies their condition as being **destitute** and in want, linking their simple clothing to a state of profound material lack [[Hebrews 11:37]].
* `{{G2346}}` **thlíbō** (to crowd (literally or figuratively):--afflict, narrow, throng, suffer tribulation, trouble): This term defines the suffering of those in sheepskins, describing them as **afflicted** as a direct result of their faith [[Hebrews 11:37]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3374}}` is derived entirely from its singular, potent context in [[Hebrews 11:37]].
* **Emblem of Persecution:** The **sheepskin** serves as a visual marker of extreme suffering. It is directly associated with being **destitute** `{{G5302}}`, **afflicted** `{{G2346}}`, and **tormented** `{{G2558}}`.
* **Cost of Faithfulness:** Worn by those who were stoned `{{G3034}}` and slain with the sword `{{G5408}}`, the garment symbolizes a life lived apart from worldly comfort and acceptance as a consequence of unwavering faith.
* **Worldly Rejection:** To wander about `{{G4022}}` in **sheepskins** and goatskins signifies a total rejection by society, forcing a life of poverty and hardship that tested the endurance of the faithful.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G3374}}` **mēlōtḗ** is a rare word, its single use in scripture is deeply impactful. It is far more than a simple reference to a **sheep-skin** garment. It functions as a powerful symbol of the destitution, affliction, and persecution endured by those who remained faithful, illustrating how a common object can convey the profound cost of discipleship.
TRV