### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **módios**, represented by `{{G3426}}`, is of Latin origin and refers to a **bushel**, a certain measure for dry things, either the quantity or the utensil itself. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently used within a single, illustrative context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3426}}` is used metaphorically in the Gospels to represent an object that would improperly hide a source of light. In Matthew, it is stated that men do not light a **candle** `{{G3088}}` and put it under a **bushel**, but on a candlestick [[Matthew 5:15]]. This same illustration is used in Mark's account, which poses the question of whether a candle is brought to be put under a **bushel** [[Mark 4:21]]. The concept is repeated in Luke, where it is noted that no man puts a lighted candle in a secret place or under a **bushel** [[Luke 11:33]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the meaning of this metaphor:
* `{{G3088}}` **lýchnos** (candle, light): This word, defined as "a portable lamp or other illuminator," is the object that is wrongly placed under the **bushel** [[Matthew 5:15]].
* `{{G3087}}` **lychnía** (candlestick): Defined as "a lamp-stand," this is the proper place for a light, serving as the correct alternative to being hidden under a **bushel** [[Mark 4:21]].
* `{{G5087}}` **títhēmi** (to place, put, set): This verb describes the action of placing the candle. It is used for the improper action of putting it under a **bushel** and the proper action of setting it on a candlestick [[Matthew 5:15]].
* `{{G2926}}` **krýptē** (secret): Defined as "a hidden place," this word is used in parallel with the **bushel** to emphasize the theme of concealment [[Luke 11:33]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3426}}` is found in its consistent role as a symbol of obstruction and foolish concealment.
* **Obscuring Light:** The **bushel** represents anything that would hide a light that is meant to **shine** `{{G2989}}`. A candle is lit not to be hidden, but to give light to all who are in the **house** `{{G3614}}`, an action the **bushel** would prevent [[Matthew 5:15]].
* **Contradicting Purpose:** The act of covering a light with a **bushel** stands in direct opposition to the purpose of lighting a candle. The light is meant to be visible so that those who enter a place "may see the **light** `{{G5338}}`" [[Luke 11:33]].
* **A Symbol of Suppression:** The use of the **bushel** in this context serves as a clear metaphor for suppressing what ought to be visible and effective. The act is presented as illogical, opposing the very reason for using a light in the first place [[Mark 4:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3426}}` **módios** is a specific utensil, a **bushel**, used exclusively in the Gospels as part of a powerful metaphor. Though it appears only three times, its purpose is to illustrate the absurdity of hiding what is intended for illumination. It functions as a negative example, reinforcing the principle that a light, like a **candle** `{{G3088}}`, belongs on a **candlestick** `{{G3087}}` where it can be seen, not concealed under an instrument of measure.
TRV