The Greek word sitistós, represented by G4619, refers to a fatling, or a fatted animal prepared for a feast. Its definition, "grained, i.e. fatted," points to an animal that has been specially fed and prepared for consumption. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, making its single usage highly significant.
The sole appearance of G4619 is in the parable of the wedding feast in Matthew 22:4. A king sends servants to tell the invited guests, "Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage." Here, fatlings are listed alongside oxen as part of the lavish preparations for a royal wedding banquet, symbolizing the richness and abundance of the king's provision. The fact that they are already "killed" underscores the readiness of the feast and the immediate nature of the invitation.
Several related words from its context in Matthew 22:4 help illuminate its meaning:
- G5022 taûros (ox): This word for a bullock or ox is used in direct parallel with fatlings to describe the scale of the feast being prepared Matthew 22:4.
- G2380 thýō (kill): This verb, meaning to slay or immolate, describes the action taken upon the fatlings, indicating that the preparations for the feast are complete and the meal is ready Matthew 22:4. In other contexts, it can refer to Christ as the sacrificed passover 1 Corinthians 5:7.
- G1062 gámos (marriage): This is the word for the wedding or marriage celebration for which the fatlings have been prepared. It frames the entire parable and points to a great ceremonial event Revelation 19:7.
- G2092 hétoimos (ready): This term, meaning ready or prepared, is used to describe the state of "all things" for the feast, including the fatlings. It emphasizes that nothing is lacking for the guests who are called Matthew 22:4.
The theological weight of G4619 is derived entirely from its role in the parable of the wedding feast.
- Symbol of Divine Provision: The inclusion of fatlings emphasizes the immense generosity and richness of God's invitation. The feast He prepares is not of ordinary provisions but of the best, specially prepared and abundant for all who are called Matthew 22:4.
- Sign of Complete Preparation: The fact that the fatlings are already killed signifies that God's work of preparation is finished. The salvation and joy offered in the kingdom are not a future promise but a present reality, ready to be received Matthew 22:4.
- The Eschatological Banquet: The fatlings are part of a marriage G1062 feast, a common biblical metaphor for the messianic age and the ultimate celebration between Christ and His people, as seen in the "marriage of the Lamb" (Revelation 19:7, Revelation 19:9).
In summary, while sitistós G4619 is a rare word, its single use is potent. As a "fatling" prepared for a royal wedding, it serves as a powerful symbol within the parable of the great banquet. It represents the lavish, abundant, and fully prepared nature of God's kingdom invitation, underscoring the incredible value of what is offered to all who are called to the marriage feast.
TRV