μηρός (mēros)
mēros
thigh
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek noun mēros refers simply to the thigh, the upper part of the leg between the hip and the knee. In biblical usage, this body part often carries symbolic weight beyond its anatomical definition, frequently representing strength, lineage, or judicial authority.
This single term appears only once in the New Testament, in Revelation 19:16. Here, it describes the inscription on the robe of the returning Christ: "King of kings and Lord of lords." The placement of this title on the thigh is unusual, as garments typically bear inscriptions on the hem or front. Some scholars suggest this location emphasizes the source of power and action, linking divine authority directly to the strength of the leg.
While the word itself is straightforward, its context in Revelation highlights a unique theological image. The thigh, often associated with the sword in ancient warfare (as seen in Judges 3:16), may subtly reinforce the idea of Christ’s active judgment and victory. This rare usage invites readers to consider how physical descriptions in apocalyptic literature serve as powerful metaphors for spiritual realities.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word mēros simply means thigh, yet its single appearance in the New Testament carries heavy significance. In Revelation 19:16, Jesus wears a name written on His garment and His thigh. This unusual placement links divine authority directly to physical strength and action. It reminds us that Christ’s rule is not distant or abstract, but active and powerful.
For your faith, this image offers comfort. The same Lord who judges with justice also acts with power. You can trust that He is fully able to defend what is right and bring about His purposes. This rare detail invites you to rest in the reality of His sovereign strength.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- thigh1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- μηρὸν1×
Key Verses
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Revelation of John 19:16
He has on his garment and on his thigh a name written, “KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.”
This verse uniquely places the title 'King of kings and Lord of lords' on Christ's thigh, linking His supreme authority to the strength of His action.