μεταδίδωμι (metadidōmi)
metadidōmi
to share
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb metadidōmi means to give a share of something or to impart it to another person. It appears in five verses across the New Testament, primarily in Romans, Luke, and 1 Thessalonians. The word combines a prefix meaning "with" or "sharing" with a root meaning "to give," creating a sense of active participation in giving rather than just passive transfer.
In Scripture, it describes both material generosity and spiritual instruction. For example, Paul speaks of sharing his own self with the Thessalonians because they became dear to him (1 Thessalonians 2:8), while Luke records John the Baptist telling crowds to share their coats and food with those who have none (Luke 3:11). The term implies a tangible exchange where the giver retains a connection to what is given.
Translators typically render metadidōmi as "share," "impart," or "distribute." This reflects its core idea of dividing something one possesses so that others may also have it. The word emphasizes community and mutual support, showing that giving is not about losing what one has but about extending it to others in need.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word metadidōmi invites us into a life of active sharing. It is not merely about handing over an object, but about connecting with another person through what we give. When Paul says he was pleased to impart his own soul to the Thessalonians, he shows that true giving involves personal affection and vulnerability. This kind of generosity strengthens our bonds with others and reflects the heart of Christ.
In practical terms, this means looking for opportunities to share your time, resources, or encouragement. It might be as simple as offering a coat to someone who lacks one, or sharing spiritual truth with a friend who needs grounding. The act of giving does not diminish you; instead, it extends your care into the lives of those around you.
As you navigate your daily interactions, consider how you can be a channel of blessing. Whether through material help or spiritual instruction, your willingness to share creates a community where everyone feels valued and supported. This simple act of giving is a powerful way to live out your faith in tangible ways.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- to impart1×
- to have imparted1×
- he should impart1×
- giving1×
- I may impart1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- μεταδῶ1×
- μεταδότω1×
- μεταδοῦναι1×
- μεταδιδόναι1×
- μεταδιδοὺς1×
Key Verses
-
I Thessalonians 2:8
Even so, affectionately longing for you, we were well pleased to impart to you not the Good News of God only, but also our own souls, because you had become very dear to us.
This verse highlights the deepest level of sharing, where Paul imparts not just information but his own life and affection to those he cares for.
-
Luke 3:11
He answered them, “He who has two coats, let him give to him who has none. He who has food, let him do likewise.”
John the Baptist uses this concept to call for tangible generosity, instructing people to share their basic necessities like coats and food with those in need.
-
Romans 1:11
For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift, to the end that you may be established;
Paul expresses his desire to impart spiritual gifts to establish the believers, showing that sharing truth is a key part of building up the church.