Brief Overview of Μεγαλεῖος (Strong’s G3167: megaleíos)

Unveiling the Word

In biblical studies, understanding Greek words like μεγαλεῖος (megaleíos) is essential for unlocking the richness of New Testament language and its cultural context. This word, which first appears in Luke 1:49, is particularly significant because it encapsulates the idea of greatness or magnificence. It is used to describe the wondrous deeds and extraordinary attributes of God, highlighting His majesty and the awe-inspiring nature of His actions. By studying μεγαλεῖος, we gain a deeper appreciation for the way the New Testament writers expressed the transcendence and glory of God, as well as the reverence with which they approached His divine works.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: Μεγαλεῖος, transliterated as megaleíos, pronounced [meg-ah-LAY-os].

Etymology: The word μεγαλεῖος is derived from the root μέγας (mégas), meaning “great” or “large.” It is related to other Greek words like μεγαλύνω (megalýnō), meaning “to magnify” or “to exalt.” The suffix -εῖος is often used to form adjectives that express qualities or attributes, emphasizing the greatness or grandeur of the subject.

Part of Speech: Adjective. Μεγαλεῖος is used as an adjective to describe something characterized by greatness, grandeur, or magnificence. It belongs to the third declension of Greek adjectives, with its forms varying based on gender, case, and number.

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Defining Meanings

1. Great: Describes something of considerable size, importance, or degree. It conveys the sense of being larger or more significant than usual.
2. Magnificent: Used to describe something exceptionally beautiful or impressive, often in a way that evokes awe or admiration.
3. Majestic: Conveys the sense of grandeur and dignity, often used in contexts that highlight the divine or royal attributes.

Exploring Similar Words

1. Μέγας (mégas) [MEG-ahs]: This word is the root of μεγαλεῖος and means “great” or “large.” It is used broadly to describe size, importance, or intensity without the specific nuance of magnificence.
2. Μεγαλύνω (megalýnō) [meh-gah-LEE-no]: This verb means “to magnify” or “to exalt” and is often used in the New Testament to describe the act of praising or glorifying God, emphasizing His greatness.
3. Υπερφάνω (hyperphánō) [hoo-per-FAH-no]: This word, meaning “to exalt” or “to show off,” differs from μεγαλεῖος in that it often has a negative connotation of pride or arrogance, whereas μεγαλεῖος conveys genuine greatness or grandeur.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

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Case, Number, Gender:

• Nominative Singular: μεγαλεῖος (masculine/feminine), μεγαλεῖον (neuter)
• Genitive Singular: μεγαλείου
• Dative Singular: μεγαλείῳ
• Accusative Singular: μεγαλεῖον (masculine/feminine), μεγαλεῖον (neuter)
• Nominative Plural: μεγαλεῖοι (masculine), μεγαλεῖαι (feminine), μεγαλεῖα (neuter)
• Genitive Plural: μεγαλείων
• Dative Plural: μεγαλείοις
• Accusative Plural: μεγαλεῖους (masculine), μεγαλείας (feminine), μεγαλεῖα (neuter)

Declension: Μεγαλεῖος follows the third declension pattern, characterized by its varying endings depending on gender, case, and number. This declension class often includes adjectives that describe attributes or qualities of the subject.

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Studying Lexicon Insights

The adjective μεγαλεῖος appears infrequently in the New Testament but is packed with significance. It is used in Luke 1:49, where Mary exclaims, “For the Mighty One has done great things [μεγαλείοι] for me; and holy is His name.” This usage underscores the magnificence of God’s actions and His intervention in human history. In classical Greek literature, μεγαλεῖος was often used to describe the grandeur of kings, heroes, and the gods, reflecting a cultural appreciation for greatness and magnificence. In theological terms, the word conveys the overwhelming greatness of God’s works, inspiring awe and reverence. It serves as a reminder that God’s deeds are not only powerful but also imbued with a transcendent beauty and majesty that surpass human understanding.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Luke 1:49: “For the Mighty One has done great things [μεγαλείοι] for me; and holy is His name.”
2. Acts 2:11: “Cretans and Arabs—we hear them in our own tongues speaking of the mighty deeds [μεγαλεῖα] of God.”
3. Acts 19:27: “Not only is there danger that this trade of ours fall into disrepute, but also that the temple of the great goddess Artemis be regarded as worthless and that she whom all of Asia and the world worship will even be dethroned from her magnificence [μεγαλειότητος].”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

Μεγαλεῖος is a profound adjective used to describe greatness, magnificence, and majesty. It encapsulates the awe-inspiring qualities of God’s deeds, as seen in Mary’s song of praise in Luke 1:49. Morphologically, it follows the third declension pattern, adapting its form to express various attributes of grandeur across different contexts. Its presence in classical literature highlights a cultural appreciation for greatness, whether in human achievements or divine actions. Theologically, it serves as a reminder of God’s unparalleled magnificence, calling believers to recognize and revere His mighty works.

Did You Know?

1. The word μεγαλεῖος is used only twice in the New Testament, emphasizing its specific and powerful application in highlighting God’s greatness.
2. In classical Greek culture, μεγαλεῖος was often associated with the magnificence of kings and deities, reflecting its use in contexts of honor and reverence.
3. The related word μεγαλειότης (megaliótēs), which means “majesty” or “splendor,” is used in the New Testament to describe the majestic presence of God.