Unveiling the Word
In biblical studies, understanding Greek words like μεγαλωσύνη (megalōsýnē) is crucial for gaining a deeper insight into the language and theology of the New Testament. This noun, first appearing in Hebrews 1:3, is particularly significant because it conveys the concept of majesty and greatness, especially in relation to divine attributes. The term μεγαλωσύνη is used to describe the majesty and grandeur of God, highlighting His supreme authority and exalted nature. By studying this word, we can better appreciate the New Testament’s portrayal of God’s transcendent glory and how this concept was understood within the early Christian community and the broader context of ancient Greek culture, where ideas of grandeur and majesty were often associated with both gods and kings.
Necessary Information
Greek Word: Μεγαλωσύνη, transliterated as megalōsýnē, pronounced [meg-ah-lo-SOO-nay].
Etymology: The word μεγαλωσύνη is derived from the root μέγας (mégas), meaning “great” or “large,” combined with the suffix -σύνη (-sýnē), which is used to form abstract nouns that express qualities or states. Thus, μεγαλωσύνη means “greatness” or “majesty,” referring to the quality of being great or exalted. It often describes the grandeur and majesty associated with divinity or royalty.
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Part of Speech: Noun, feminine. Μεγαλωσύνη is a feminine noun used to denote the quality of greatness or majesty. It follows the third declension in Greek grammar, with its forms varying based on case and number.
The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Defining Meanings
- Majesty: Refers to the grandeur or regal quality that commands respect and awe, often used to describe the majesty of God or a king. It signifies a sense of overwhelming greatness.
- Greatness: Emphasizes the attribute of being large in scope, importance, or impact. In theological contexts, it denotes God’s supreme greatness and authority.
- Exalted State: Suggests an elevated or superior position, often in a spiritual or moral sense. It highlights the divine nature of God’s attributes as being far above those of humanity.
Exploring Similar Words
- Μεγαλειότης (megaliótēs) [meg-ah-LEE-o-tace]: Meaning “majesty” or “greatness,” this word is closely related to μεγαλωσύνη but is used more specifically to denote the dignity and splendor of God’s presence or actions.
- Δόξα (dóxa) [DOX-ah]: Translated as “glory,” δόξα refers to the visible manifestation of God’s greatness and honor. While μεγαλωσύνη focuses on the abstract quality of majesty, δόξα emphasizes the brilliance and radiance of God’s presence.
- Υπέρτατος (hypértatos) [hoo-PER-ta-tos]: Meaning “supreme” or “most high,” this word is used to denote something or someone of the highest rank or status, often applied to God as the supreme being.
Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
Case, Number, Gender:
- Nominative Singular: μεγαλωσύνη – Subject of the sentence, “majesty” or “greatness.”
- Genitive Singular: μεγαλωσύνης – Indicates possession, “of majesty.”
- Dative Singular: μεγαλωσύνῃ – Used for indirect objects, “to majesty.”
- Accusative Singular: μεγαλωσύνην – Direct object, “majesty.”
- Nominative Plural: μεγαλωσύνες – Plural form, “majesties” or “greatnesses.”
- Genitive Plural: μεγαλωσυνῶν – Possessive plural, “of majesties.”
- Dative Plural: μεγαλωσύναις – Indirect object plural, “to majesties.”
- Accusative Plural: μεγαλωσύνες – Direct object plural, “majesties.”
Declension: Μεγαλωσύνη follows the third declension pattern, with forms that change according to case and number. This declension class is common for abstract nouns expressing qualities or states.
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Studying Lexicon Insights
Μεγαλωσύνη is a profound term used in the New Testament to express the concept of God’s majestic and exalted nature. In Hebrews 1:3, it describes Jesus as seated at the “right hand of the Majesty [μεγαλωσύνης] on high,” emphasizing His divine authority and glory. This word is rarely used in the New Testament, highlighting its significance in contexts that focus on God’s supreme status. In classical Greek literature, μεγαλωσύνη often referred to the grandeur of gods or kings, reflecting the cultural admiration for greatness and majesty. Theologically, μεγαλωσύνη underscores the transcendence of God, portraying Him as infinitely above all creation, worthy of reverence and worship.
This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.
Tracing Related Scriptures
- Hebrews 1:3: “And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power. When He had made purification of sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty [μεγαλωσύνης] on high.”
- Jude 1:25: “To the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty [μεγαλωσύνη], dominion and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.”
- Deuteronomy 32:3 (LXX): “For I proclaim the name of the Lord; ascribe greatness [μεγαλωσύνην] to our God!”
Analyzing Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Plutarch | Lives | “The μεγαλωσύνη of Alexander was evident not only in his conquests but in his magnanimity.” |
| Aristotle | Nicomachean Ethics | “The μεγαλωσύνη of the virtuous man lies in his ability to perform great and noble deeds.” |
| Herodotus | Histories | “They spoke of the μεγαλωσύνη of the Persian king, whose wealth and power were unmatched.” |
| Septuagint (LXX) | Psalm 68:34 | “Ascribe strength to God; His μεγαλωσύνη is over Israel, and His strength is in the skies.” |
| Septuagint (LXX) | Deuteronomy 32:3 | “For I proclaim the name of the Lord; ascribe μεγαλωσύνη to our God!” |
| Septuagint (LXX) | Job 37:22 | “Out of the north comes golden splendor; around God is awesome μεγαλωσύνη.” |
Noteworthy Summary
Μεγαλωσύνη, meaning “majesty” or “greatness,” is a powerful noun used in the New Testament to describe the grandeur and exalted nature of God. It captures the concept of divine supremacy and authority, emphasizing God’s position above all creation. Morphologically, it follows the third declension and is used sparingly in Scripture, highlighting its profound significance. Its usage in both New Testament and classical contexts reveals a deep cultural and theological appreciation for greatness, whether attributed to God, kings, or virtuous individuals. Understanding μεγαλωσύνη enriches our perception of God’s majesty and the reverence due to Him.
Did You Know?
- The word μεγαλωσύνη is used only three times in the New Testament in contexts that emphasize God’s supreme majesty and authority.
- In classical Greek literature, μεγαλωσύνη was often used to describe the grandeur and nobility of heroes and kings, reflecting a cultural ideal of greatness.
- The concept of μεγαλωσύνη is closely related to the Hebrew word גָּדוֹל (gadol), meaning “great,” which is frequently used in the Old Testament to describe God’s greatness and majesty.
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