μετάγω (metagō)
metagō
to turn
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb metagō primarily means to lead, carry, or transport something from one place to another. In classical Greek and the Septuagint, it describes physical movement, such as transferring goods or people across a distance. Its root combines the idea of "with" or "after" with "leading," emphasizing the act of guiding a subject along a path.
James uses this word in a striking metaphorical sense to describe turning the tongue. He compares the small bit placed in a horse's mouth to the rudder of a ship, noting that both serve to direct the entire body or vessel. Here, metagō shifts from physical transport to steering or guiding direction, illustrating how a minor component can control the course of the whole.
This usage highlights a specific nuance where leading becomes directing. While the word often implies moving an object, James applies it to the power of speech to turn the mind and actions of a person. The sources note this sense is otherwise rare, making James’s application distinctive for its focus on control and orientation rather than mere relocation.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word metagō describes the act of turning or steering something from one direction to another. In James 3, this verb connects the small bit in a horse’s mouth and the tiny rudder on a large ship. Both are minor parts that control the movement of a much larger whole. This image reminds us that small actions can have significant influence over our overall path.
James applies this physical reality to the power of speech. Just as a rudder guides a vessel, our words can steer the course of our lives and the lives of those around us. When we speak with care, we direct ourselves toward wisdom and peace. This perspective invites us to view our conversations not as trivial exchanges, but as tools for shaping our character and relationships.
Understanding this connection between small controls and large outcomes offers a practical way to grow in self-awareness. It encourages mindfulness in daily interactions, recognizing that every word contributes to the direction we are heading. By paying attention to what we say, we can better align our lives with the values we hold dear.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- we turn about.1×
- are turned about1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- μετάγομεν.1×
- μετάγεται1×
Key Verses
-
James 3:3
Indeed, we put bits into the horses’ mouths so that they may obey us, and we guide their whole body.
This verse establishes the metaphor by showing how a small bit controls the entire horse, illustrating the disproportionate influence of minor components.
-
James 3:4
Behold, the ships also, though they are so big and are driven by fierce winds, are yet guided by a very small rudder, wherever the pilot desires.
Here the word describes the rudder guiding a massive ship, emphasizing that even in turbulent conditions, a small tool can determine the final destination.