μέγας

large, great

Definition

The adjective μέγας (megas) primarily means 'great' or 'large' in a wide range of senses. It can describe physical size, as in the 'great' storm on the sea (Matthew 8:24). More often, it denotes importance, intensity, or significance, such as a 'great' reward in heaven (Matthew 5:12) or 'great' authority (Revelation 13:2). It also carries a sense of majesty or awe, frequently used for God's power (e.g., 'great' is the mystery of godliness in 1 Timothy 3:16) and for significant eschatological events like the 'great' white throne judgment (Revelation 20:11).

Biblical Usage

Μέγας is used extensively throughout the New Testament, appearing in all genres. In the Gospels, it often describes miracles, crowds, or teachings (e.g., the 'great' earthquake in Matthew 28:2). In the Epistles, it frequently modifies abstract qualities like love, grace, or joy (e.g., 'great' joy in 1 Peter 1:6). The book of Revelation uses it prolifically for divine and apocalyptic imagery, such as the 'great' city, the 'great' tribulation, and the 'great' God. Its usage patterns show a shift from literal size to metaphorical and theological grandeur.

Etymology

Μέγας is a native Greek adjective of ancient Indo-European origin, related to the Latin 'magnus'. It is the root for many English words like 'mega-' and 'magnitude'. In Greek, it forms the comparative μείζων (meizōn, G3187) meaning 'greater'. Its core meaning of 'large' or 'great' remained stable throughout classical and Koine Greek, though its application expanded in biblical Greek to encompass profound spiritual and eschatological significance.

Semantic Range

Μέγας is theologically significant as a key descriptor for God's attributes and actions. It underscores God's majesty (Revelation 11:17), power (Luke 1:49), and mercy (Ephesians 2:4). It highlights the supreme importance of Christ's work, such as our 'great' high priest (Hebrews 4:14) and the 'great' salvation He offers (Hebrews 2:3). Understanding its range from literal size to supreme importance enriches reading by revealing the weight and scale of biblical concepts, from human sin to divine redemption.

In the Greco-Roman world, 'greatness' (μεγαλειότης) was often associated with public honor, political power, and physical monuments. The New Testament frequently subverts this, applying μέγας to spiritual realities, sacrificial love, and the kingdom of God—concepts that the culture might not have considered 'great'. For instance, being 'great' in God's kingdom is linked to service and humility (Matthew 20:26), contrasting sharply with the cultural pursuit of status and dominance.

μεγάλη (megale, G3173 fem.) — identical root, feminine form. μείζων (meizōn, G3187) — comparative degree, 'greater'. ἱκανός (hikanos, G2425) — sufficient or competent, sometimes overlapping in sense of 'considerable'. πολύς (polys, G4183) — often 'much' or 'many', focusing on quantity rather than inherent greatness.

Word Details

Scripture References