μετέχω

I participate in, share

Definition

Μετέχω means to share in, participate in, or partake of something, often implying a close association or partnership. In the New Testament, it primarily describes sharing in spiritual realities, such as believers partaking of the one bread in the Lord's Supper (1 Corinthians 10:17) or sharing in the benefits of an altar (1 Corinthians 10:18). It can also denote participation in more negative things, like partaking of the table of demons (1 Corinthians 10:21). In Hebrews, it describes Jesus sharing in humanity (Hebrews 2:14) and others sharing in milk (Hebrews 5:13) or a tribe (Hebrews 7:13).

Biblical Usage

This verb is used eight times, predominantly by Paul in 1 Corinthians (five times) and in Hebrews (three times). In 1 Corinthians, it is used in discussions about sharing in spiritual benefits and warnings against idolatry (e.g., 1 Corinthians 10:17, 21). In Hebrews, it highlights participation in human nature or in priestly lineage (Hebrews 2:14, 7:13). The usage consistently involves a person actively receiving or being joined to something, whether tangible or abstract.

Etymology

Μετέχω is a compound verb from the preposition μετά (meta, meaning 'with' or 'after') and the verb ἔχω (echō, meaning 'to have' or 'to hold'). Literally, it means 'to have with' or 'to hold a share in.' This etymology underscores the idea of joint possession or participation. Cognates include μέτοχος (metochos, G3353), meaning 'sharer' or 'partner.'

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it expresses the believer's union and participation in Christ. In 1 Corinthians 10:16-17, partaking of the bread signifies communion with the body of Christ. In Hebrews 2:14, it highlights the incarnation—Jesus partook of flesh and blood to redeem humanity. Understanding μετέχω enriches the reading of sacramental theology, the doctrine of Christ's humanity, and the ethical call to avoid fellowship with evil.

In the Greco-Roman world, 'partaking' often carried strong social and religious connotations, especially in the context of communal meals and sacrifices. To partake of a sacrifice meant to be in fellowship with the deity being honored. Paul uses this cultural understanding in 1 Corinthians 10 to argue that partaking of the Lord's Table is incompatible with partaking of idolatrous feasts, as it signifies allegiance to different spiritual realms.

κοινωνέω (koinōneō, G2841) — emphasizes fellowship and sharing in common; often more communal. μέτοχος (metochos, G3353) — a noun meaning 'participant' or 'partner,' focusing on the person who shares. μεταλαμβάνω (metalambanō, G3335) — means 'to receive a share' or 'to take part in,' sometimes with a more passive connotation.

Word Details

Scripture References