ἧττων
lesser, inferior, weaker
Definition
ἧττων is an adjective meaning 'lesser,' 'inferior,' or 'weaker.' It describes a state of being in a lower position, rank, or condition compared to another. In 2 Corinthians 12:15, Paul uses it to express his willingness to be 'less' or to spend himself completely for the Corinthians' spiritual benefit. In 1 Corinthians 11:17, it carries the sense of being 'worse' or 'detrimental,' as Paul criticizes their gatherings for doing more harm than good.
Biblical Usage
This word appears only twice in the New Testament, both times in Paul's letters. In 1 Corinthians 11:17, it describes the negative, 'worse' outcome of their divisive church gatherings. In 2 Corinthians 12:15, Paul uses it relationally, stating his readiness to be 'the lesser' and to be expended for the sake of the believers, highlighting self-sacrificial love.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek root meaning 'to be less' or 'to be inferior.' It is the comparative form of a base meaning 'bad' or 'inferior,' related to the adjective κακός (kakos, G2556) meaning 'bad' or 'evil.' The comparative form inherently conveys a relational sense of being worse or weaker than something else.
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant as it captures the apostolic principle of humility and sacrificial service. In 2 Corinthians 12:15, Paul inverts worldly values, embracing a 'lesser' status to build up the church, mirroring Christ's own self-emptying (Philippians 2:5-8). It challenges believers to reconsider strength and greatness from a gospel perspective.
In Greco-Roman culture, status, honor, and strength were paramount virtues. For Paul to willingly identify as 'lesser' or 'weaker' (2 Corinthians 12:15) was counter-cultural, rejecting the pursuit of social superiority. His usage subverts the typical honor-shame framework, redefining value through self-giving love.
ἐλάσσων (elassōn, G1640) — also means 'less' or 'smaller,' but often in a more quantitative or age-related sense (e.g., younger). μικρότερος (mikroteros, G3398) — means 'smaller' or 'lesser,' typically in physical size or degree, a comparative of μικρός (small).
Word Details
How this works
Definitions are from the Dodson Greek-English Lexicon, a concise public-domain resource suitable for introductory word study. Brief glosses are supplemented by STEPBible TBESG data (CC BY 4.0). For advanced research, standard scholarly references include BDAG (Danker, 3rd ed.) and LSJ.
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