σιτομέτριον (sitometrion)
sitometrion
grain ration
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun sitometrion refers to a specific, measured ration of grain or food. It is a rare term found only once in the New Testament, appearing in Luke 12:42 as part of Jesus’ parable about the faithful and wise manager.
Its meaning derives from roots indicating grain (sitos) and measuring (metron). This etymology highlights that the word does not simply mean "food," but rather a portion allocated according to a standard or quota. In the context of the parable, it describes the daily sustenance assigned to household servants by their master.
The specificity of this word underscores the manager’s responsibility to distribute resources fairly and precisely. By using a term for a measured ration, the text emphasizes order and accountability in the management of what belongs to another. The image is one of disciplined stewardship rather than casual sharing.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word sitometrion describes a measured ration of grain, highlighting that provision is not random but assigned with care and precision. In Luke 12:42, Jesus uses this image to describe the faithful manager who gives each servant their portion at the right time. This reminds us that God provides for our needs in specific ways, tailored to the moment.
Stewardship involves more than just having resources; it means distributing them fairly and on schedule. When we manage what God has entrusted to us, we reflect His order and faithfulness. Trusting in His timing helps us find peace, knowing that He supplies exactly what is needed when it is needed most.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- measure of food?1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- σιτομέτριον;1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 12:42
The Lord said, “Who then is the faithful and wise steward, whom his lord will set over his household, to give them their portion of food at the right times?
This verse uses sitometrion to define the manager's duty of providing measured sustenance at the proper time, emphasizing timely and fair distribution.