μέγεθος

greatness, vastness

Definition

The Greek word μέγεθος refers to 'greatness' or 'vastness,' specifically denoting magnitude, size, or extent. In the New Testament, it is used exclusively in Ephesians 1:19 to describe the 'immeasurable greatness' (τὸ ὑπερβάλλον μέγεθος) of God's power toward believers. This usage emphasizes not merely physical size but the overwhelming, surpassing nature of divine strength. The term conveys a sense of something so immense it exceeds ordinary measurement or comprehension.

Biblical Usage

Μέγεθος appears only once in the New Testament, in Ephesians 1:19. Here, it is part of a prayer that believers may know 'the immeasurable greatness of his power' (τὸ ὑπερβάλλον μέγεθος τῆς δυνάμεως αὐτοῦ). The word is paired with the participle ὑπερβάλλον ('surpassing' or 'exceeding'), intensifying its meaning to describe a divine power that is beyond human calculation or limits. This singular usage is highly theological and doxological, focusing on God's dynamic activity.

Etymology

Μέγεθος is derived from the adjective μέγας (megas, G3173), meaning 'great' or 'large.' It is a noun formed from this root to express the abstract quality or state of greatness. Cognates include μεγαλειότης (megaleiotēs, G3168), meaning 'majesty' or 'greatness,' and μεγαλύνω (megalynō, G3170), 'to magnify.' The development from the concrete adjective to the abstract noun reflects a focus on the concept of magnitude itself.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it uniquely qualifies the nature of God's power in Ephesians 1:19. It underscores that the resurrection power available to Christians is not ordinary but of an immeasurable, divine scale. Understanding μέγεθος enriches reading by highlighting that Christian hope is rooted in a power whose 'greatness' is inherently beyond human limitation, central to the epistle's theme of spiritual blessing and strength in Christ.

In ancient Greek culture, μέγεθος could refer to physical size, spatial extent, or even moral greatness. The New Testament usage spiritualizes this concept, applying it to divine attributes. The original audience, familiar with the term's general meaning, would have grasped the hyperbolic force of 'immeasurable greatness' used for God's power, contrasting it with finite human or earthly measures of strength.

μεγαλειότης (megaleiotēs, G3168) — emphasizes majesty or splendid greatness, often of God's works. δύναμις (dynamis, G1411) — the power itself, whereas μέγεθος describes its magnitude. ὑπερβολή (hyperbolē, G5236) — excess or surpassing degree, sometimes used similarly for what exceeds measure.

Word Details

Scripture References