μακρός
long, distant
Definition
The adjective μακρός primarily means 'long' in terms of physical distance or duration. In the spatial sense, it describes a journey to a 'far country' (Luke 15:13, 19:12). In the temporal sense, it describes something of 'long duration,' such as the lengthy prayers of the scribes (Mark 12:40, Luke 20:47). In Matthew 23:14, it is used in a manuscript variant describing the 'long prayers' of the hypocrites, reinforcing the temporal meaning.
Biblical Usage
μακρός is used five times in the New Testament, exclusively in the Gospels. Its usage is evenly split between describing physical distance (Luke 15:13, 19:12) and describing the extended length of prayers (Mark 12:40, Luke 20:47, and the variant in Matthew 23:14). This pattern highlights its application to both concrete and abstract forms of 'length.'
Etymology
Derived from the ancient Greek root μακρός, meaning 'long' or 'large.' It is a primary adjective with cognates in other Indo-European languages. The word itself is the source for English scientific terms like 'macroscopic' (viewing large things). Its meaning remained stable from classical through Koine Greek.
Semantic Range
While not a central theological term, its usage is theologically significant in the Gospels. When describing the 'long prayers' of the religious leaders (Mark 12:40, Luke 20:47), it critiques empty, performative piety that prioritizes appearance over sincere devotion. In the parables (Luke 15:13, 19:12), the 'far country' symbolizes a state of alienation from the father's household, enriching the themes of repentance, return, and stewardship.
In the cultural context, a 'long journey' (Luke 19:12) implied significant separation, risk, and a lapse in communication, making the master's trust in his servants more striking. 'Long prayers' were sometimes viewed as a mark of special piety, but Jesus condemns this practice when used for public show, aligning with his broader critique of religious hypocrisy.
πόρρω (porrō, G4207) — an adverb meaning 'far off,' emphasizing distance rather than length. μῆκος (mēkos, G3372) — a noun meaning 'length,' the measurable quality itself.
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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