μεγαλειότης

majesty

Definition

The Greek word μεγαλειότης (megaleiotēs) refers to the quality of being great, majestic, or magnificent. In the New Testament, it is used exclusively to describe the awe-inspiring, transcendent greatness of God or divine beings. In Luke 9:43, it describes the 'majesty of God' displayed in Jesus's miracles. In Acts 19:27, it refers to the 'majesty' of the goddess Artemis, showing its application to pagan deities. In 2 Peter 1:16, it describes the 'majestic glory' of Christ witnessed at the Transfiguration, emphasizing a visible, divine splendor.

Biblical Usage

This word appears three times in the New Testament, always in contexts emphasizing visible, awe-inspiring divine power or splendor. It is used once in the Gospels (Luke 9:43), once in Acts (19:27), and once in the Epistles (2 Peter 1:16). In Luke and 2 Peter, it is directly associated with the manifestation of God's power in Christ. In Acts, it is used in a pagan context for the perceived majesty of a false goddess, showing the term could be applied in a general religious sense for supreme greatness.

Etymology

Derived from the adjective μέγας (megas, G3173), meaning 'great' or 'large.' The suffix -ειότης forms an abstract noun indicating a state or quality, thus μεγαλειότης literally means 'greatness' or 'majesty.' It is related to the verb μεγαλύνω (megalynō, G3170), 'to magnify' or 'make great.' The word's meaning developed from a general sense of greatness to specifically denote the magnificent, awe-inspiring quality associated with the divine.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it captures the visible, overwhelming splendor and power of God's presence. It connects key revelations of Christ's divine nature: his miraculous power (Luke 9:43) and his glorious Transfiguration (2 Peter 1:16). Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting that biblical 'majesty' is not a quiet dignity but a powerful, awe-inspiring manifestation that elicits wonder and confirms divine identity.

In the Greco-Roman world, μεγαλειότης was a term used for the sublime grandeur of gods, emperors, or monumental works. Its use for Artemis in Acts 19:27 reflects this common cultural understanding of divine majesty tied to power and prestige. The New Testament authors co-opt this term, redirecting its focus to the one true God and Christ, asserting that true, ultimate majesty belongs solely to them, not to idols or human rulers.

δόξα (doxa, G1391) — 'glory,' often referring to honor, reputation, or radiant splendor, while μεγαλειότης emphasizes overwhelming greatness and magnificence. κράτος (kratos, G2904) — 'power' or 'might,' focusing on strength and dominion, whereas μεγαλειότης includes the awe-inspiring quality of that power.

Word Details

Scripture References