μεταμορφόω (metamorphoō)
metamorphoō
to transform
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 4 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb metamorphoō means to change into a different form or nature. It describes a deep transformation that alters the essential character of something, rather than just adjusting its outward appearance. In the New Testament, this word appears only four times, carrying significant theological weight in each instance.
It is most famous for describing Jesus’ Transfiguration, where His appearance became radiantly different on the mountain (Matthew 17:2; Mark 9:2). The same word is used to describe the spiritual renewal of believers. In Romans 12:2 and 2 Corinthians 3:18, Christians are called to be transformed by having their minds renewed, reflecting a change that comes from within through relationship with God.
The term combines a prefix meaning "change" with a root for "form." This distinguishes it from words that simply mean changing clothes or style. The transformation described here is internal and fundamental, resulting in an external manifestation of a new spiritual reality.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word metamorphoo points to a change that goes beneath the surface. It is not about putting on a new outfit or changing your style, but about a shift in who you are at the core. When we look at Jesus on the mountain, His appearance changed to reveal His true divine nature. This same power works in us when we spend time with God.
Paul writes that this transformation happens as we allow our minds to be renewed. It is a slow, steady process where we become more like Christ from one day to the next. You do not have to force this change yourself. Instead, you simply keep your eyes fixed on Him, and He does the work of reshaping your heart.
This promise is for anyone who wants to live differently than the world expects. It offers hope that your current struggles are not the final shape of your life. God is actively working to bring out the best version of you, one step at a time.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 4 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- He was transfigured2×
- do be transformed1×
- are being transformed into1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- μετεμορφώθη2×
- μεταμορφοῦσθε1×
- μεταμορφούμεθα1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 17:2
He was changed before them. His face shone like the sun, and his garments became as white as the light.
This verse shows the word used for Jesus' physical change, revealing His divine glory to the disciples.
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Mark 9:2
After six days Jesus took with him Peter, James, and John, and brought them up onto a high mountain privately by themselves, and he was changed into another form in front of them.
Here the text emphasizes that Jesus was changed into a different form before the witnesses.
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Romans 12:2
Don’t be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what is the good, well-pleasing, and perfect will of God.
Paul uses this term to describe the internal renewal of the mind that distinguishes Christian life from worldly patterns.
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II Corinthians 3:18
But we all, with unveiled face seeing the glory of the Lord as in a mirror, are transformed into the same image from glory to glory, even as from the Lord, the Spirit.
This passage links the transformation directly to beholding the Lord's glory, showing it is a relational process.