σιτιστός

fattened

Definition

The adjective σιτιστός (sitistos) means 'fattened' or 'fattened up.' It specifically describes livestock, particularly cattle, that have been deliberately fed and cared for to become plump and ready for slaughter, indicating a high-quality, choice animal. In its only New Testament occurrence, it functions as a substantive (a noun), referring to 'fattened cattle' or 'fattened calves.' This usage is found exclusively in the Parable of the Wedding Feast in Matthew 22:4, where the king declares, 'Behold, I have prepared my dinner; my oxen and my fattened cattle are killed, and everything is ready.'

Biblical Usage

Σιτιστός is used only once in the New Testament, in Matthew 22:4. It appears within a parable told by Jesus, describing the lavish and generous preparations made by a king for a wedding feast. The word highlights the quality and readiness of the provision, emphasizing that nothing is lacking for the invited guests. Its singular usage is as a substantive noun ('the fattened ones') paired with 'oxen,' painting a picture of abundant, premium food for a celebratory banquet.

Etymology

Σιτιστός is derived from the Greek verb σιτίζω (sitizō), which means 'to feed' or 'to fatten,' particularly with grain (σίτος, sitos). It is a verbal adjective with a passive sense, meaning 'having been fed' or 'fattened.' The root connects to sustenance and cultivation, pointing to an animal that has been intentionally and carefully nourished to reach a prime condition.

Semantic Range

In Matthew 22:4, 'fattened cattle' symbolize the complete and gracious provision of God's kingdom, prepared through Christ. The term underscores the richness and readiness of God's invitation to salvation. The killing of these choice animals signifies the costly preparation, possibly pointing to Christ's sacrifice. Understanding that these were the best possible animals deepens the parable's contrast between God's generous offer and the shocking refusal of the invited guests.

In the ancient Greco-Roman and Jewish world, fattened livestock represented significant wealth, honor, and celebration. Such animals were not for everyday meals but were reserved for special feasts, sacrifices, or to honor esteemed guests. Their use in a parable signals an occasion of utmost importance and generosity, far exceeding normal hospitality. A modern equivalent might be serving the most expensive, prime-grade steak at a banquet.

ἀρνίον (arnion, G721) — a lamb, often young; less specific about its condition. σιτιστός specifies the animal's fattened, prepared state.

Word Details

Scripture References