μεθερμηνεύω (methermēneuō)
methermēneuō
to mean
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 8 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek verb methermēneuō means to translate or interpret, specifically rendering words from one language into another so that understanding is possible. It appears eight times in the New Testament, primarily within the Gospels and Acts, highlighting moments where communication across linguistic barriers becomes essential for connection.
Its formation combines a prefix with the root for "interpreter," emphasizing the act of bridging gaps between speakers. This word surfaces in key narrative details, such as when Jesus clarifies the meaning of Aramaic phrases like Talitha kumi to his disciples (Mark 5:41) or when John the Baptist explains that he is not the Christ but one who comes after him (John 1:28). In Acts, it describes Barnabas, whose name means "son of encouragement," showing how early leaders navigated cultural and linguistic differences.
Unlike general terms for speaking, this verb focuses on the mechanical act of translation itself. It underscores the practical reality that the gospel message often required careful interpretation to be understood by diverse audiences in the first century.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word methermēneuō reminds us that God cares about clarity. In a world full of noise and misunderstanding, He provides ways for truth to be heard. When Jesus translated Aramaic phrases into Greek, or when the apostles explained names like Barnabas, they were not just swapping words. They were ensuring that hearts could receive the message without confusion.
This attention to detail shows that God values connection across barriers. Whether it is a child being raised from the dead or a sorcerer’s name being clarified, the gospel moves through language to reach people where they are. It invites us to value clear communication in our own lives, helping others understand the hope we hold.
Ultimately, this verb highlights God’s patience and care. He does not leave us guessing about His intentions. By bridging linguistic gaps, He ensures that the good news is accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or native tongue.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 8 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- being translated;2×
- being translated,2×
- being translated2×
- means1×
- meaning1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- μεθερμηνευόμενον3×
- μεθερμηνευόμενον·2×
- μεθερμηνευόμενον,2×
- μεθερμηνεύεται1×
Key Verses
-
Mark 5:41
Taking the child by the hand, he said to her, “Talitha cumi!” which means, being interpreted, “Girl, I tell you, get up!”
Jesus uses this word to translate Aramaic into Greek, showing His care for the woman’s healing by ensuring her disciples understood the power of His command.
-
Matthew 1:23
“Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and shall give birth to a son. They shall call his name Immanuel,” which is, being interpreted, “God with us.”
The translation of Immanuel clarifies the theological weight of Jesus’ birth, confirming that God is personally present with His people.
-
Acts 4:36
Joses, who by the apostles was also called Barnabas (which is, being interpreted, Son of Encouragement), a Levite, a man of Cyprus by race,
Explaining Barnabas’s name as 'Son of Encouragement' links his identity directly to his ministry style, showing how names can reflect spiritual character.