μετρέω

I measure, estimate

Definition

The verb μετρέω primarily means 'to measure' in a literal, physical sense, such as using a measuring rod or standard, as seen in Revelation 11:1-2 and Revelation 21:15-16 where the temple, altar, and New Jerusalem are measured. It also carries a metaphorical sense of 'to estimate,' 'to evaluate,' or 'to apportion.' This figurative usage is prominent in ethical teachings about judgment and reciprocity, where the standard one uses to assess others will be applied in return, as Jesus states in Matthew 7:2 and Luke 6:38. In 2 Corinthians 10:12, Paul uses it critically for those who 'measure' themselves by their own standards rather than God's.

Biblical Usage

The word is used nine times in the New Testament, appearing in the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke), Paul's letters (2 Corinthians), and most frequently in Revelation. In the Gospels, it is used in Jesus' ethical teachings about judgment and generosity (Matthew 7:2, Mark 4:24, Luke 6:38). In 2 Corinthians 10:12, it is used polemically regarding self-comparison. In Revelation (11:1, 11:2, 21:15, 21:16), it is used literally in visionary descriptions of measuring sacred spaces, emphasizing divine order and ownership.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek noun μέτρον (metron, G3358), meaning 'measure,' 'standard,' or 'portion.' The verb μετρέω is part of a common word family related to measurement and proportion. Its fundamental sense of applying a fixed standard underlies both its literal and figurative biblical uses.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it connects human ethical standards with divine judgment. Jesus' teaching that 'with the measure you use, it will be measured to you' (Matthew 7:2) establishes a principle of divine reciprocity in judgment and grace. In Revelation, God's act of measuring symbolizes His sovereignty, protection, and the precise fulfillment of His redemptive plan for His people and His holy city. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting the link between the standards we apply in daily life and the ultimate standard God applies.

In the ancient world, precise measurement was essential for commerce, construction, and land distribution, making it a common concept. The measuring reed or rod was a standard tool. The metaphorical use of measurement for judgment and evaluation would have been readily understood in a culture familiar with proverbial wisdom. The act of measuring a temple or city, as in Revelation, conveyed ideas of claiming ownership, assessing for restoration, or marking for preservation or destruction.

κρίνω (krinō, G2919) — focuses on judging, separating, or deciding, whereas μετρέω emphasizes assessment by a standard or proportion. σταθμάω (stathmaō, not in NT) — a less common synonym specifically for weighing. ἀναμετρέω (anametreō, not in NT) — a compound meaning to measure back or in return, closely related to the reciprocal sense in the Gospels.

Word Details

Scripture References