from a derivative of σῖτος; grain-fed, i.e. fattened:--fatted.
Transliteration:siteutós
Pronunciation:sit-yoo-ros'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word G4618 (σιτευτός, *siteutós*) is derived from σῖτος (sitos), meaning "grain" or "food." Consequently, its core meaning is "grain-fed" or "fed with grain." This naturally extends to the semantic range of "fattened" or "well-fed," specifically referring to animals that have been intentionally nourished to achieve a state of plumpness, typically in preparation for slaughter, sacrifice, or a special feast. The term implies a deliberate process of feeding for a specific purpose, conveying a sense of readiness, abundance, and value.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term G4618 appears exclusively in the Gospel of Luke, specifically within the Parable of the Prodigal Son.
* [[Luke 15:23]]: "And bring the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry." Here, the father commands his servants to bring "the fatted calf" (τὸν μόσχον τὸν σιτευτόν) to celebrate the return of his lost son. The use of σιτευτός highlights that this is not an ordinary animal but one specially prepared and reserved for a significant occasion, underscoring the extraordinary nature of the celebration.
* [[Luke 15:27]]: "And he said unto him, Thy brother is come; and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound." This verse reiterates the action, emphasizing the father's immediate and lavish response to his son's return. The "fatted calf" symbolizes the depth of the father's joy and the magnitude of the reconciliation.
In both instances, σιτευτός is crucial for understanding the father's boundless generosity and the profound significance of the son's restoration. It signifies a sacrifice of high value, reserved for moments of great rejoicing and reconciliation, demonstrating the father's overflowing love.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **σῖτος (sitos):** The root word for G4618, meaning "grain" or "food," directly links the concept of being "fattened" to the process of being nourished and provisioned.
* **μόσχος (moschos):** This Greek word for "calf" is consistently paired with G4618 in Luke 15, forming the significant phrase "fatted calf" (μόσχον τὸν σιτευτόν).
* **Old Testament Parallels:** While G4618 is unique to the New Testament, the concept of "fattened" animals for sacrifice or feasting is deeply embedded in Old Testament culture and practice. Hebrew terms like `{{H4806}}` (mar'î) or `{{H1277}}` (bārî') often describe fat or well-fed animals in contexts of offerings ([[1 Samuel 15:9]], [[1 Kings 1:9]]) or celebratory meals, such as Abraham's hospitality in [[Genesis 18:7]]. The "fatted calf" in Luke's parable thus resonates with ancient Near Eastern traditions of lavish hospitality and sacrificial offerings.
* **Sacrifice and Offering:** The selection of a "fatted" animal implies offering the best and most valuable, a theme central to biblical understanding of worship, gratitude, and atonement.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of G4618 in the Parable of the Prodigal Son is profound. The "fatted calf" serves as a powerful symbol of the Father's immeasurable grace, unconditional love, and boundless generosity towards the repentant sinner. It signifies that reconciliation with God is not merely a return to a basic state of existence, but an entry into a feast of abundance, joy, and full restoration. The Father does not offer a meager welcome but provides the very best of his possessions, underscoring the immense value He places on the restored relationship.
Furthermore, the killing of the fatted calf carries sacrificial overtones, subtly foreshadowing the ultimate redemptive work of Christ, which provides the means for such radical reconciliation and celebration. Just as the calf was prepared for a specific purpose and moment of rejoicing, so too was Christ prepared for His atoning sacrifice. The "fattened" nature of the animal (σιτευτός) also emphasizes the Father's readiness and eagerness to welcome the lost home, highlighting the proactive and overflowing nature of divine love and forgiveness. It symbolizes the restoration to full sonship, not just servant status, in the household of God.
### Summary
G4618 (σιτευτός), meaning "grain-fed" or "fattened," describes an animal specially prepared for a significant occasion. Its exclusive appearances in the New Testament within the Parable of the Prodigal Son ([[Luke 15:23]], [[Luke 15:27]]) elevate its meaning beyond a mere physical description. The "fatted calf" stands as a potent symbol of God the Father's extravagant grace, unconditional love, and the joyous, abundant welcome extended to those who return to Him. It signifies a profound celebration of restoration and reconciliation, echoing Old Testament themes of valuable offerings and feasts. The word underscores the readiness of divine provision and the immense value God places on a restored relationship, making it a critical element in understanding the parable's deep theological message of redemption and divine welcome.
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