σιτόμετρον
sitómetron
G4620 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
A specific measure or allotted portion of grain; in context, refers to a regulated quantity or ration of grain given out, often as a daily or periodic allowance. Can designate both the standard container used for measuring grain and the portion itself, chiefly as a controlled food allowance, especially in times of scarcity or regulation.
Semantic Range
measure of grain, grain ration, allotted portion of grain, food allowance (specifically in grain), grain-measure container
Root / Etymology
From σῖτος (wheat, grain) and μέτρον (measure). Formed as a compound, meaning 'grain-measure.'
Historical & Contextual Notes
σιτόμετρον is a rare compound word, found in Koine sources, including the Septuagint (notably Genesis 47:12 LXX for Joseph's rationing in Egypt) and Josephus. It does not appear in classical Greek. The term denotes an official, measured portion of grain allotted for sustenance, typically by an authority or household head. While earlier English translations sometimes render this as 'portion of meat,' the Greek specifically points to a rationed measure of grain (not meat). The word reflects administrative practices in the Hellenistic and Roman world where public or household grain distribution required standardized measurement. Its usage in Josephus and the LXX situates it within contexts of organized supply, especially in times of famine, crisis, or state provision. The rendering 'portion' in some traditions can obscure its specificity as a grain measure; it is not used generically for any food.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from σῖτος and μέτρον; a grain-measure, i.e. (by implication) ration (allowance of food):--portion of meat.
Root Family
σιτομετρ- (sitómetron) — to measure, to allot, to distribute (grain)
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4620-01 |
σιτομέτριον | sitometrion | N ACC N SG |
portion of food | a grain ration | grain ration | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4620-01 |
Luke 12:42 | σιτομέτριον | sitometrion | N ACC N SG |
portion of food | a grain ration | grain ration |