μεθύω (methuō)
methuō
to get drunk
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 6 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb methuō describes the state of being intoxicated by wine. In its literal sense, it appears in narratives where characters are affected by alcohol, such as when Jesus notes that a host serves the best wine last (John 2:10) or when Peter addresses the crowd’s accusation that his companions are drunk on new wine (Acts 2:15). It also warns against the foolishness of a servant who expects to find his master intoxicated upon his return (Matthew 24:49).
Beyond physical inebriation, the word carries a strong metaphorical weight in Revelation. John uses it to describe Babylon the Great, who makes all the nations drunk with the wine of her sexual immorality and abominations (Revelation 17:2, 6). Here, intoxication symbolizes overwhelming influence or moral corruption that clouds judgment. The term links directly to the noun for wine, emphasizing that the source of this state is something consumed or absorbed.
Translators typically render methuō as "drunk" or "intoxicated," preserving the clear physical and spiritual implications. While the New Testament rarely uses it for general excess, its appearance in Revelation highlights a profound theological point: just as wine alters perception, false teachings or sinful practices can distort a person’s understanding of truth. The word serves as a stark warning against being overwhelmed by worldly influences.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word methuō describes a state of intoxication where judgment is clouded by what has been consumed. In everyday life, this might mean losing clarity after too much wine, but in Scripture, it often points to something deeper: being overwhelmed by influences that distort our view of truth. When Jesus noted the best wine was saved for last, He highlighted human patterns of preference; when Peter addressed the crowd, He clarified that spiritual power is not confused with physical intoxication.
This word serves as a gentle warning against allowing worldly systems or false teachings to sway your mind. Just as alcohol can impair perception, engaging with corrupt values or deceptive ideas can dull your spiritual discernment. The call is to remain clear-headed and grounded in reality, letting truth guide your choices rather than being swept away by temporary pleasures or misleading narratives.
May you find clarity in your daily walk, keeping your heart and mind focused on what is true and good. Let wisdom be your companion as you navigate the influences around you, ensuring that nothing clouds your ability to see clearly and live faithfully.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 6 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- they may have drunk freely1×
- is drunken.1×
- get drunk;1×
- being drunkards,1×
- being drunk1×
- are drunkards,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- μεθύουσιν·1×
- μεθύουσιν,1×
- μεθύουσαν1×
- μεθύει.1×
- μεθυόντων,1×
- μεθυσθῶσιν1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 2:15
For these aren’t drunken, as you suppose, seeing it is only the third hour of the day.
Peter uses this word to distinguish the Holy Spirit's power from mere intoxication, showing that spiritual fullness is orderly and clear.
-
Revelation of John 17:6
I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus. When I saw her, I wondered with great amazement.
John describes Babylon as drunk with blood, using the term metaphorically to show how moral corruption overwhelms judgment and leads to violence.
-
I Corinthians 11:21
For in your eating each one takes his own supper first. One is hungry, and another is drunken.
Paul contrasts proper communion with selfish excess, using this word to highlight how indulgence disrupts community unity.