### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun μίλιον (mílion, `{{G3400}}`) is a direct transliteration and adoption of the Latin *milium* or *mille passus*, meaning "a thousand paces." As such, its core meaning is a unit of linear measurement, specifically a "mile," equivalent to approximately 1,618 meters or 5,280 feet in the Roman system. It denotes a concrete, measurable distance and carries no inherent abstract or theological meaning in its base definition. Its semantic range is therefore limited to this precise spatial dimension.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term μίλιον (mílion, `{{G3400}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, found in the Gospel of Matthew:
* [[Matthew 5:41]]: "And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two."
This verse is part of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, specifically within the section where He reinterprets and expands upon the Mosaic Law, emphasizing an internal disposition that exceeds mere external compliance. The context involves the Roman practice of *angareia* (from the Greek verb ἀγγαρεύω - *angareuo*, `{{G29}}`), a system of impressment or forced service. Roman soldiers or officials had the legal right to compel civilians to carry their military equipment or baggage for a specific distance, often limited to one Roman mile.
Jesus' command to "go with him two" radically subverts the expectation of resistance or begrudging compliance. Instead of merely fulfilling the legal obligation, or even resisting it, the disciple is called to voluntarily exceed the demand, demonstrating an extraordinary act of selfless generosity and non-retaliation. The "mile" here is not just a unit of distance but a symbol of imposed burden, which the believer is to transform through an act of supererogation, turning a compelled service into a willing offering.
### Related Words & Concepts
While μίλιον (mílion, `{{G3400}}`) itself is a specific unit, its significance is deeply interwoven with several related concepts and terms:
* **Compulsion:** The verb ἀγγαρεύω (angareuo, `{{G29}}`), meaning "to compel" or "to impress into service," is directly linked to the use of μίλιον in [[Matthew 5:41]]. This highlights the context of a forced, rather than voluntary, act.
* **Distance/Measurement:** Other Greek terms for distance, such as στάδιον (stadion, `{{G4712}}`, "furlong" or "stadium"), provide context for ancient units, though μίλιον is unique in its direct Latin derivation and specific Roman association.
* **Law and Obligation:** The passage in [[Matthew 5:41]] implicitly contrasts the demands of human law (νόμος - nomos, `{{G3551}}`) with the higher ethical demands of God's kingdom.
* **Radical Discipleship:** The concept of "going the extra mile" is intrinsically linked to Jesus' broader teachings on turning the other cheek ([[Matthew 5:39]]), giving one's cloak ([[Matthew 5:40]]), and loving enemies ([[Matthew 5:44]]). These form a cluster of instructions for a counter-cultural, kingdom-oriented ethic.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of μίλιον (mílion, `{{G3400}}`) derives almost entirely from its singular, powerful use in [[Matthew 5:41]]. It serves as a concrete illustration of several profound theological principles within Christ's teaching:
1. **Transformative Love:** The command to go a second mile transcends mere justice or reciprocity. It embodies an active, self-giving love that seeks the good of the oppressor, reflecting the character of God who "makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good" ([[Matthew 5:45]]). It transforms a moment of injustice into an opportunity for grace.
2. **Exceeding Righteousness:** Jesus calls His followers to a righteousness that surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees ([[Matthew 5:20]]). "Going the extra mile" is a tangible example of this "surpassing righteousness," moving beyond minimal legal compliance to radical generosity and self-sacrifice.
3. **Internal Disposition over External Obligation:** The command shifts the focus from external rules and legalistic adherence to an internal disposition of the heart. It is not about *what* one is compelled to do, but *how* one responds, with a spirit of willingness and overflowing grace.
4. **Counter-Cultural Witness:** In a world governed by power and retaliation, Jesus' teaching presents a revolutionary ethic that disarms hostility through unexpected kindness and proactive service. It is a powerful witness to the values of God's kingdom.
5. **Cost of Discipleship:** While seemingly simple, the act of "going the extra mile" can be costly, requiring humility, patience, and a willingness to endure inconvenience or even exploitation for the sake of embodying Christ's love.
### Summary
The Greek word μίλιον (mílion, `{{G3400}}`) precisely denotes a "mile," a unit of distance derived from Latin. Its sole appearance in the New Testament, in [[Matthew 5:41]], imbues this otherwise mundane measurement with profound theological weight. In the context of Roman occupation and compulsory service, Jesus' command to "go the second mile" transcends mere physical distance, becoming a powerful metaphor for radical Christian discipleship. It encapsulates the call to transformative love, exceeding legal obligations with voluntary generosity, demonstrating an internal disposition of grace that actively disarms injustice and provides a counter-cultural witness to the Kingdom of God. The "extra mile" thus symbolizes the boundless nature of Christ-like love and service, moving beyond what is required to offer what is truly sacrificial.
TRV