μελετάω (meletaō)
meletaō
to meditate/plot
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb meletaō describes the focused attention given to a task or subject, carrying meanings that range from careful practice to deep contemplation. In classical usage, it often referred to the rigorous study and rehearsal undertaken by orators to perfect their speech. This sense of diligent preparation appears in the New Testament when Paul instructs Timothy to devote himself to these matters, urging him to be absorbed in the practice of his faith and teaching (1 Timothy 4:15).
Its range extends beyond mere study to include plotting or devising a plan, a nuance visible when the text describes how leaders were stirred by the Holy Spirit to consider the course of action they would take (Acts 4:25). The word implies an active engagement of the mind and will, where thought leads directly to intention. Translators often render it as "meditate" or "be diligent," capturing the idea that true understanding requires sustained effort and repeated focus.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When we encounter the word meletaō, it invites us into a posture of focused attention. In ancient times, this term described the rigorous rehearsal an orator undertook to perfect their speech. For the believer, it suggests that spiritual growth is not passive but requires intentional practice. It is about giving yourself wholly to the matters of faith, allowing your progress to become visible through consistent engagement.
This focus does not mean we must manufacture every word we speak in moments of crisis. Jesus reminded His followers not to be anxious or premeditate their defense when facing authority, for the Holy Spirit provides what is needed in that hour. Instead, our daily diligence prepares the heart to receive and respond with grace. We study and meditate so that when the moment comes, we are ready.
Ultimately, this word encourages a life of steady devotion. It is not about striving for perfection through sheer willpower, but about cultivating a habit of mind and spirit that aligns with God’s truth. By giving ourselves to these things, we create space for God’s work to unfold in us and through us.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- do ponder,1×
- do devise;1×
- did devise1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐμελέτησαν1×
- μελέτα,1×
- μελετᾶτε·1×
Key Verses
-
I Timothy 4:15
Be diligent in these things. Give yourself wholly to them, that your progress may be revealed to all.
Paul urges Timothy to give himself wholly to the practice of faith and teaching, highlighting that diligence leads to visible spiritual progress.
-
Mark 13:11
When they lead you away and deliver you up, don’t be anxious beforehand or premeditate what you will say, but say whatever will be given you in that hour. For it is not you who speak, but the Holy Spirit.
Jesus instructs believers not to premeditate their words during persecution, emphasizing reliance on the Holy Spirit rather than human preparation in critical moments.
-
Acts 4:25
who by the mouth of your servant David, said, ‘Why do the nations rage, and the peoples plot a vain thing?
The text describes David as having 'plotted' or devised a psalm, showing the word’s use for intentional creative thought inspired by the Spirit.