λεγεών

a legion, very large number

Definition

The Greek word λεγεών (legeōn) primarily refers to a Roman legion, the largest unit in the Roman army, typically composed of about 6,000 infantry plus supporting cavalry. In the New Testament, it is used both literally for a military division and figuratively to denote an immense, organized multitude. In its literal sense, Jesus references the availability of angelic legions in Matthew 26:53. More prominently, in the exorcism accounts (Mark 5:9, 15; Luke 8:30), the term is used figuratively by the demon(s) named 'Legion' to convey their vast, overwhelming number, emphasizing the severity of the possession.

Biblical Usage

This word is used four times in the Synoptic Gospels. It appears once in Matthew (26:53) where Jesus speaks hypothetically of calling upon legions of angels. The other three occurrences are in the parallel exorcism narratives of Mark (5:9, 15) and Luke (8:30), where it functions as the name of a demonic host, powerfully illustrating a multitude of evil spirits. The usage pattern shows a flexible application from a concrete military term to a symbolic representation of an uncountable, organized force, whether divine or demonic.

Etymology

λεγεών is a direct loanword from the Latin 'legio, legionis,' meaning a levy or conscription, which became the standard term for a Roman army division. It was adopted into Koine Greek due to Roman military and administrative dominance. The Latin root relates to 'legere' (to choose or gather), reflecting the legion's formation from selected citizens.

Semantic Range

The term is theologically significant as it bridges concepts of divine power and spiritual warfare. In Matthew 26:53, it underscores Christ's sovereign authority and the voluntary restraint of divine, militant power during his passion. In the exorcism accounts, 'Legion' vividly portrays the scale and organized nature of demonic opposition, heightening the magnitude of Jesus's authority over the entire spiritual realm. Understanding this military metaphor enriches the reading by highlighting the cosmic conflict and the overwhelming victory of Christ's kingdom.

For a 1st-century audience under Roman rule, a 'legion' represented the ultimate symbol of immense, disciplined, and overwhelming imperial power. Its use as a demonic name (Mark 5:9) would have been startling, equating a spiritual threat with the most formidable human military force they knew. This context amplifies the narrative's drama, showing Jesus confronting and subduing a power perceived as invincible.

στρατιά (stratia, G4756) — a general term for an army or host, less specific than a Roman legion. πλῆθος (plēthos, G4128) — a multitude or great number, but without the organized, military connotation. μυριάς (myrias, G3461) — a ten thousand, often used for an indefinitely large number, but not a specific military unit.

Word Details

Scripture References