μεγαλεῖος

grand, magnificent

Definition

The adjective μεγαλεῖος (megaleios) describes something that is grand, magnificent, or splendid, often in a way that inspires awe. In the New Testament, it is used exclusively to describe the mighty works and character of God. In Luke 1:49, Mary uses it in her Magnificat to praise God's 'great things' (τὰ μεγαλεῖα), referring to His powerful and merciful acts in salvation history. In Acts 2:11, it describes the 'wonderful works of God' (τὰ μεγαλεῖα τοῦ θεοῦ) proclaimed at Pentecost, highlighting God's mighty deeds in the person and work of Jesus Christ.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only twice in the New Testament, both times in the plural neuter form (τὰ μεγαλεῖα) meaning 'the magnificent deeds' or 'the great things.' It is used in contexts of worshipful proclamation. In Luke 1:49, it is part of a hymn of praise. In Acts 2:11, it is used by a diverse international crowd marveling at God's works. The pattern shows it is a specialized term for declaring God's awesome and praiseworthy acts.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek root μέγας (megas, G3173), meaning 'great' or 'large.' The suffix -λεῖος forms an adjective indicating possession of a quality, so μεγαλεῖος essentially means 'having greatness' or 'characterized by greatness.' It is related to the noun μεγαλειότης (megaleiotēs, G3168), meaning 'majesty' or 'magnificence,' which appears in 2 Peter 1:16.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it focuses attention directly on the majesty and mighty acts of God. It moves beyond a general sense of 'big' to a specific, worship-oriented declaration of God's glorious power in salvation. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by showing that the 'great things' in Luke 1:49 and Acts 2:11 are not vague but are the specific, awe-inspiring deeds of God in Christ—His incarnation, redemption, and the outpouring of the Spirit—which are the proper subject of Christian proclamation and praise.

In the Greco-Roman world, similar language was used to describe the impressive deeds of emperors, heroes, or gods. The New Testament's application of this term exclusively to the one true God reclaims it, asserting that true magnificence and splendor belong solely to Yahweh and His actions in history through Jesus. It contrasts human notions of greatness with divine, redemptive power.

μέγας (megas, G3173) — The root adjective meaning 'great' in size, age, or importance; more general. μεγαλειότης (megaleiotēs, G3168) — The noun 'majesty' or 'magnificence,' describing the glorious quality itself (2 Peter 1:16).

Word Details

Scripture References