of Latin origin; a modius, i.e. certain measure for things dry (the quantity or the utensil):--bushel.
Transliteration:módios
Pronunciation:mod'-ee-os
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word μόδιος (modios, `{{G3426}}`) is a loanword directly from the Latin *modius*. Its base definition refers to a specific dry measure, approximately equivalent to 8.75 liters or about one peck (a quarter of a bushel in some systems). Importantly, the term can denote both the *quantity* measured and the *utensil* or vessel used for measuring it. In the New Testament, its usage is primarily metaphorical, representing an object that can obscure or hide something, specifically light.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term μόδιος appears three times in the New Testament, exclusively within the Synoptic Gospels, in parallel passages related to Jesus' teaching on the "light of the world."
* **[[Matthew 5:15]]**: "Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bushel basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house." Here, the μόδιος is presented as an unsuitable place for a lamp, as it would prevent the light from fulfilling its purpose. The context is Jesus' exhortation for His disciples, who are the "light of the world," to let their light shine through their good works.
* **[[Mark 4:21]]**: "He said to them, 'Do you bring in a lamp to put it under a bushel or under a bed? Instead, don’t you put it on its stand?'" Mark's account parallels Matthew's, reinforcing the absurdity of concealing light. The addition of "under a bed" (κλίνη) further emphasizes the inappropriate nature of hiding what is meant to be visible. This passage is part of Jesus' teaching on the purpose of parables and the revelation of truth.
* **[[Luke 11:33]]**: "No one lights a lamp and puts it in a place where it will be hidden, or under a bushel basket, but on a stand, so that those who come in may see the light." Luke's phrasing emphasizes the intentionality of light (to be seen) and the counter-purposeful act of hiding it. The phrase "in a place where it will be hidden" (κρυπτὸν) broadens the scope beyond just the μόδιος, highlighting the principle of visibility.
In all instances, the μόδιος functions as a symbol of concealment or obstruction, standing in stark contrast to the "lampstand" (λύχνια, `{{G3087}}`), which is the proper place for a lamp (λύχνος, `{{G3088}}`) to illuminate its surroundings.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Light (φῶς, `{{G5457}}`):** The central concept that μόδιος is juxtaposed against. The inherent nature of light is to dispel darkness and reveal, while the μόδιος represents that which would suppress this function.
* **Lamp (λύχνος, `{{G3088}}`):** The source of the light, which is not to be hidden.
* **Lampstand (λύχνια, `{{G3087}}`):** The proper and intended place for the lamp, enabling its light to be seen by all.
* **Hiding/Concealment (κρύπτω, `{{G2928}}`):** The action that the μόδιος facilitates, which is explicitly forbidden for the "light of the world."
* **Witness/Testimony (μαρτυρία, `{{G3141}}`):** The spiritual "light" that believers are called to manifest through their lives and words, which should not be obscured by fear or worldly concerns.
* **Good Works (ἔργα ἀγαθά, `{{G2041}}` `{{G18}}`):** As seen in [[Matthew 5:16]], these are the tangible expressions of the light within believers, intended to be seen by others so that God may be glorified.
### Theological Significance
The μόδιος metaphor carries profound theological weight, particularly concerning the nature of Christian discipleship and witness.
* **The Imperative of Visibility:** Jesus' teaching unequivocally calls believers to a life of open, visible faith. The light of Christ, once received, is not meant for private consumption or concealed piety. To hide one's light under a μόδιος is to deny its very purpose and power.
* **Overcoming Obstacles to Witness:** The μόδιος serves as a symbol for any worldly influence, fear of persecution, social pressure, personal timidity, or self-serving ambition that might cause a believer to suppress or compromise their public witness for Christ. It warns against allowing such "bushels" to stifle the divine illumination within.
* **Impact on the World:** The light of believers is not merely for their own benefit but is intended to illuminate the spiritual darkness of the world, drawing others to the saving knowledge of God. Hiding this light under a μόδιος directly impedes God's redemptive work through His people.
* **Stewardship of Divine Revelation:** Believers are entrusted with the truth of the Gospel and the transformative power of God's Spirit. The μόδιος metaphor underscores the responsibility of good stewardship, ensuring that the entrusted light is not kept hidden but allowed to shine brightly.
* **Authenticity vs. Hypocrisy:** While the teaching is not about ostentatious display for self-glory (which Jesus condemns elsewhere), it is about authentic, Spirit-empowered living that naturally radiates God's glory. The μόδιος represents a failure to live out this genuine, impactful witness.
### Summary
The Greek word μόδιος (modios, `{{G3426}}`), derived from Latin and signifying a dry measure or its vessel, functions as a potent metaphor in the Synoptic Gospels. Appearing in [[Matthew 5:15]], [[Mark 4:21]], and [[Luke 11:33]], it consistently symbolizes an object used to conceal light. Jesus employs this imagery to instruct His followers, who are the "light of the world," against hiding their spiritual witness, good deeds, or the truth of the Gospel. The μόδιος represents any worldly fear, self-interest, or societal pressure that might tempt believers to suppress the visible manifestation of their faith. The theological significance lies in the imperative for believers to openly live out their calling, allowing their light to shine forth, not for personal glory, but to illuminate the world and bring glory to God, thereby fulfilling the very purpose for which they have been enlightened.
TRV