μεθύω

I am drunk

Definition

The verb μεθύω primarily means 'to be drunk' or 'to become intoxicated,' most often referring to literal drunkenness from wine (e.g., Acts 2:15, 1 Corinthians 11:21). In a metaphorical sense, it can describe being 'drunk' or 'intoxicated' with something other than wine, such as being overcome with passion or judgment. For example, in Revelation 17:2, the inhabitants of the earth are described as being 'drunk with the wine' of Babylon's immorality, indicating a state of spiritual corruption and delusion. This figurative usage highlights a condition of being under the controlling influence of sin or false teaching.

Biblical Usage

Μεθύω is used seven times in the New Testament, appearing in Gospels, Acts, Epistles, and Revelation. It describes literal drunkenness in narrative contexts, like the servant who beats others when drunk (Matthew 24:49) or the guests at the wedding in Cana who have 'well drunk' (John 2:10). In ethical teaching, Paul uses it to condemn disorderly conduct at the Lord's Supper (1 Corinthians 11:21) and to contrast drunkenness with sober-mindedness as a characteristic of believers (1 Thessalonians 5:7). In Revelation, it takes on a strong metaphorical sense, depicting spiritual intoxication with idolatry and persecution (Revelation 17:2, 6).

Etymology

Μεθύω derives from the Greek noun μέθη (methē, G3178), meaning 'drunkenness.' It is part of a word family related to intoxication, including the verb μεθύσκω (methyskō, G3182), 'to make drunk.' The root concept centers on the state of being under the influence of wine, which in Greek culture could be associated with both celebration and excess. The meaning extended metaphorically in biblical usage to describe being dominated by any powerful influence.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it contrasts the self-control expected of Christians with the失控 of drunkenness, which is consistently condemned as a work of the flesh (e.g., Galatians 5:21). The metaphorical use in Revelation ties spiritual 'drunkenness' to participation in worldly systems opposed to God, enriching the reader's understanding of idolatry as a form of intoxication that blinds people to truth and judgment. Understanding this Greek term highlights the biblical call to sober-mindedness and alertness in both physical and spiritual life.

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, wine was a daily staple, but excessive drinking at symposia (drinking parties) was a common social vice. Drunkenness could symbolize moral laxity, lack of self-control, and chaotic behavior, which stood in stark contrast to Greek ideals of moderation. The biblical authors use this shared cultural understanding to warn against literal drunkenness and to powerfully illustrate the spiritual danger of being 'drunk' on sin, false teaching, or worldly power, a metaphor that would have been immediately vivid to original audiences.

οἰνοφλυγέω (oinophlygeō, G3182) — to be flooded with wine, emphasizing excess; μεθύσκω (methyskō, G3182) — to make drunk, to intoxicate (often causative); κραιπάλη (kraipalē, G2897) — a noun for the giddiness or headache from drunkenness, denoting the after-effects.

Word Details

Scripture References