μεταμέλομαι

I change my mind

Definition

The verb μεταμέλομαι means to change one's mind or purpose, often with a sense of regret or remorse. It describes an emotional or intellectual reconsideration that may or may not lead to a lasting change of action. In Matthew 27:3, Judas Iscariot 'changed his mind' and felt deep remorse after betraying Jesus, but his regret did not lead to repentance unto salvation. In contrast, in Matthew 21:29, the son who initially refused to work in the vineyard 'changed his mind' and went, illustrating a positive change of purpose. The word can thus range from simple regret to a decisive change of intention.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used only five times in the New Testament, primarily in Matthew's Gospel and in two epistles. It appears in parables about obedience (Matthew 21:29, 32) and in the historical narrative of Judas's remorse (Matthew 27:3). Paul uses it to describe his own temporary regret for sending a harsh letter (2 Corinthians 7:8), and the author of Hebrews quotes a divine oath where God will not 'change his mind' (Hebrews 7:21). The usage shows it applies to both human and divine subjects, though with God it denotes an unchangeable purpose.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition μετά (meta, meaning 'after' or 'with a change of') and the root μέλομαι (melomai, 'to care for, be concerned about'). Literally, it means 'to care differently afterward' or 'to have a change of concern.' This etymology highlights the element of reconsideration following an action or decision.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant in distinguishing between mere regret and true, transformative repentance. Unlike μετάνοια (metanoia, G3341), which denotes a complete turning of the mind and life toward God, μεταμέλομαι can describe a sorrow that does not lead to salvation, as seen with Judas. Understanding this distinction is crucial for interpreting passages about repentance and God's unchanging nature, as in Hebrews 7:21, which assures us of Christ's permanent priesthood.

In the Greco-Roman world, changing one's mind could be seen as a sign of weakness or inconsistency, especially for public figures or deities. The biblical use, particularly in Hebrews 7:21, counters this by affirming God's oath as a guarantee of His unwavering purpose, a concept that would provide strong reassurance to the original audience about the reliability of Christ's priesthood.

μετανοέω (metanoeō, G3340) — denotes a deeper, transformative repentance involving a change of mind, heart, and direction toward God. λυπέω (lypeō, G3076) — focuses more on the emotional experience of grief or sorrow, which may or may not accompany a change of mind.

Word Details

Scripture References