### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **blētéos**, represented by `{{G992}}`, is a verbal adjective derived from **bállō** `{{G906}}` meaning to throw or put. It denotes that something is **fit to be cast** or, more directly, that it **must be put**. This specific term appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, yet it carries significant weight in its context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In both of its biblical appearances, `{{G992}}` is used by Jesus in the parable of the new wine and the wineskins. The word emphasizes a divine necessity and proper application. In Luke, the instruction is clear: "new wine **must be put** into new bottles; and both are preserved" [[Luke 5:38]]. Similarly, the Gospel of Mark concludes the same teaching by stating, "but new wine **must be put** into new bottles" [[Mark 2:22]]. The use of `{{G992}}` transforms the action from a mere suggestion into a foundational principle for preserving both the new "wine" and its "bottle."
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{G992}}` is illuminated by several related words used in the same passages:
* `{{G906}}` **bállō** (to throw... cast... put): The root verb from which `{{G992}}` is derived, signifying the action of placing or casting something. It is used in the negative part of the parable, where men do not "put" new wine into old bottles [[Mark 2:22]].
* `{{G3501}}` **néos** (new... youthful, or... fresh): This word describes the "new" wine [[Luke 5:38]]. It often relates to newness in terms of age, like the "younger" men [[1 Timothy 5:1]].
* `{{G2537}}` **kainós** (new (especially in freshness)): This term is used for the "new" bottles [[Mark 2:22]]. It is distinguished from `{{G3501}}` and points to a newness in quality or kind, as in a "new creature" [[2 Corinthians 5:17]] or a "new commandment" [[John 13:34]].
* `{{G779}}` **askós** (a leathern (or skin) bag used as a bottle): This is the object being acted upon—the wineskin or "bottle" that must be fit to receive the new wine [[Luke 5:38]].
* `{{G3820}}` **palaiós** (antique... not recent, worn out): This describes the "old" bottles that are incompatible with new wine. The term is also used figuratively for the "old man" which believers are to put off [[Ephesians 4:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G992}}` centers on the principle of compatibility between the new work of God and the vessel that contains it.
* **A Divine Imperative:** The word "must be put" establishes a non-negotiable rule. The new reality brought by Christ cannot be forced into old, rigid structures. This points to the need for a "new man" [[Colossians 3:10]] and a "new testament" [[2 Corinthians 3:6]].
* **The Consequence of Incompatibility:** Placing new wine in old, worn-out bottles results in destruction. The bottles **burst** `{{G4486}}`, the wine is **spilled** `{{G1632}}`, and the bottles will be **marred** `{{G622}}` or **perish** `{{G622}}`, as detailed in [[Mark 2:22]].
* **The Principle of Preservation:** Following the imperative of `{{G992}}` leads to preservation. When new wine is correctly put into new bottles, "both are **preserved**" `{{G4933}}` [[Luke 5:38]]. This shows that the form and the substance must align for God's work to be sustained.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G992}}` **blētéos** is a concise but powerful word that captures a critical lesson from Jesus. While appearing only twice, its context within the parable of the wineskins makes it a key term for understanding the nature of the New Covenant. It conveys that the new life in Christ is not an addition to the old but a total replacement that **must be put** into a correspondingly new vessel—a renewed heart and mind—to avoid destruction and ensure preservation.
TRV