### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sáton**, represented by `{{G4568}}`, is of Hebrew origin and denotes a specific **measure** for dry goods. It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its use is confined to a single parabolic illustration.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical context, `{{G4568}}` appears exclusively within the parable of the leaven. Jesus uses this parable to describe the nature of the kingdom of heaven [[Matthew 13:33]]. In both Matthew and Luke, a woman takes leaven and hides it in three **measures** of meal ([[Matthew 13:33]], [[Luke 13:21]]). The word provides a concrete quantity for the meal, emphasizing the small start and eventual, complete influence of the leaven until the **whole** `{{G3650}}` is affected.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are used alongside `{{G4568}}` to construct the parable's meaning:
* `{{G2219}}` **zýmē** (leaven): Defined as ferment, this is the active agent in the parable. It is compared to the kingdom of heaven [[Matthew 13:33]] and is also used to represent negative influences like malice and wickedness [[1 Corinthians 5:8]].
* `{{G224}}` **áleuron** (meal): This is the substance, defined as flour, into which the leaven is hidden. It is the recipient of the transformative action in both occurrences of the parable ([[Matthew 13:33]], [[Luke 13:21]]).
* `{{G1470}}` **enkrýptō** (to conceal in): This action word describes what the woman does with the leaven, to **hid** it within the measures of meal, suggesting the quiet and internal start of the kingdom's growth [[Luke 13:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4568}}` is derived entirely from its role in the parable of the leaven.
* **Illustrating Kingdom Growth:** The term is part of a metaphor for the **kingdom** `{{G932}}` of heaven. The specific quantity of three **measures** provides a tangible image for the substantial yet hidden way the kingdom permeates the world [[Matthew 13:33]].
* **Pervasive Influence:** The use of **sáton** quantifies the mass that is to be transformed, highlighting that the kingdom's influence is not partial but works until the **whole** `{{G3650}}` is **leavened** `{{G2220}}`.
* **Parabolic Teaching:** As a component of a **parable** `{{G3850}}`, the word helps frame a spiritual mystery in everyday terms. It grounds the abstract concept of the kingdom in the common activity of preparing dough, making the teaching accessible [[Luke 8:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4568}}` is a highly specific term for a dry **measure**. Though its usage is limited, its role is significant. It functions within one of Jesus's parables to provide a concrete, measurable image that explains the pervasive, internal, and transformative nature of the kingdom of heaven, demonstrating how an ordinary object can be used to illustrate a profound spiritual truth.
TRV