μεγάλως

greatly

Definition

The adverb μεγάλως means 'greatly,' 'very much,' or 'vehemently,' expressing a high degree or intensity. In its sole New Testament occurrence, it describes the intensity of Paul's joy in Philippians 4:10, where he rejoices 'greatly' in the Lord because the Philippians' care for him has revived. While it can denote magnitude in a general sense, its biblical usage specifically conveys profound emotional or spiritual intensity. There are no distinct biblical passages where the meaning differs, as it appears only once.

Biblical Usage

Μεγάλως is used only once in the New Testament, in Philippians 4:10. Here, it modifies the verb 'I rejoiced,' emphasizing the depth and fervor of Paul's joy upon hearing that the Philippian church had renewed their concern for him. The context is personal and relational, highlighting an emotional response within a pastoral letter. Its singular occurrence suggests it was a strong, emphatic term chosen for specific rhetorical effect rather than common parlance.

Etymology

Μεγάλως is derived directly from the adjective μέγας (megas, G3173), meaning 'great' or 'large.' It is formed by adding the adverbial suffix -ως to the stem. As such, it functions as the adverbial form of 'great,' translating the quality of greatness into a manner or degree. Cognates include μεγαλύνω (megalynō, G3170, 'to magnify') and μεγαλειότης (megaleiotēs, G3168, 'majesty'), all sharing the root concept of greatness.

Semantic Range

Though used only once, μεγάλως enriches the understanding of Christian joy as expressed by Paul. It signifies that joy in the Lord can be profound and intense, even in circumstances of lack or hardship (Philippians 4:11-13). This aligns with the letter's theme of finding surpassing contentment in Christ. Understanding this Greek term highlights that Paul's rejoicing was not mild or casual but a deep, vehement response to God's faithfulness through community, underscoring the relational and spiritual depth of Christian fellowship.

In ancient Greek, adverbs ending in -ως were standard for expressing manner or degree. The root concept of 'greatness' (μέγας) carried connotations of importance, power, and magnitude in Hellenistic culture. Using μεγάλως would have communicated a strong, unequivocal intensity to the original readers, fitting the rhetorical style of personal letters which often employed emphatic language to convey sincere emotion and reinforce relational bonds.

σφόδρα (sphodra, G4970) — denotes 'exceedingly' or 'vehemently,' often with a sense of urgency or excess; λίαν (lian, G3029) — means 'very,' 'exceedingly,' typically in a more general intensive sense.

Word Details

Scripture References