G1640
Introduction
Understanding Greek words is crucial in Biblical studies, as it allows for a deeper comprehension of the text’s original meaning and context. One such word, ἐλάσσων (elassōn), offers insight into themes of comparison and hierarchy in the New Testament. This word, which translates to “less,” “smaller,” or “inferior,” is significant in interpreting passages that discuss humility, status, and the relationship between individuals or groups. The use of ἐλάσσων in the New Testament not only reveals important theological concepts but also reflects the cultural and social norms of the ancient world.
Key Information
ἐλάσσων (elassōn) [eh-LAH-ssohn]
- Etymology: The term ἐλάσσων is derived from the comparative form of the adjective μικρός (mikros), which means “small” or “little.” As a comparative adjective, ἐλάσσων inherently involves a comparison, typically indicating something that is lesser or smaller in degree or quantity.
- Part of Speech: Adjective (comparative form); Third declension.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon
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Primary Meanings
- Lesser: In a general sense, ἐλάσσων is used to denote something that is of lesser degree, quantity, or importance.
- Inferior: It can also imply inferiority in rank, status, or power, particularly in contexts where a comparison is made between two entities.
- Younger: In some contexts, ἐλάσσων is used to refer to someone younger in age, especially in familial relationships.
Similar Words:
- Μικρός (mikros) [mee-KROS]: Meaning “small” or “little,” this word is the positive form from which ἐλάσσων is derived. It refers to something small in size, degree, or importance without making a direct comparison.
- Ἐλάχιστος (elachistos) [eh-LAH-khis-tos]: The superlative form of μικρός, meaning “least” or “smallest.” While ἐλάσσων denotes a lesser degree, ἐλάχιστος indicates the smallest or least in a group.
Further Insights:
- Morphology: ἐλάσσων is a comparative adjective, and its declension follows the patterns of third-declension Greek adjectives. Below is the declension of ἐλάσσων:
| Case | Masculine/Feminine Singular | Neuter Singular | Masculine/Feminine Plural | Neuter Plural |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nominative | ἐλάσσων | ἐλάσσον | ἐλάσσονες | ἐλάσσονα |
| Genitive | ἐλάσσονος | ἐλάσσονος | ἐλάσσονων | ἐλάσσονων |
| Dative | ἐλάσσονι | ἐλάσσονι | ἐλάσσουσι(ν) | ἐλάσσουσι(ν) |
| Accusative | ἐλάσσονα | ἐλάσσον | ἐλάσσοντας | ἐλάσσονα |
| Vocative | ἐλάσσων | ἐλάσσον | ἐλάσσονες | ἐλάσσονα |
- Usage: This word often appears in contexts where a comparison between individuals or groups is made, particularly to emphasize humility or to describe someone of a lower status or younger age.
Lexicon Insights
BDAG: The BDAG lexicon explains that ἐλάσσων is used primarily in comparative contexts to denote something of lesser importance, quantity, or age. It is often used in contrast with something greater or superior.
Thayer’s: Thayer’s lexicon emphasizes the use of ἐλάσσων in moral and social comparisons, highlighting passages where it indicates inferiority in rank or moral standing.
Vine’s: Vine’s Expository Dictionary discusses ἐλάσσων in the context of familial relationships and societal roles, noting how the word reflects the cultural hierarchies of the time.
LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon traces the usage of ἐλάσσων in classical Greek literature, noting its frequent use in philosophical texts to discuss the concept of lesser virtues or qualities.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s highlights the occurrences of ἐλάσσων in the New Testament, particularly in verses that discuss the humility or lesser status of individuals, as well as in comparative statements about material wealth or spiritual stature.
Scripture References
- Romans 9:12 – “It was said to her, ‘The elder will serve the younger (ἐλάσσων).’” — This verse uses ἐλάσσων to refer to the younger of two siblings, emphasizing the reversal of expected roles.
- Hebrews 7:7 – “But without any dispute the lesser (ἐλάσσων) is blessed by the greater.” — Here, ἐλάσσων denotes someone of lesser status who receives a blessing from someone greater.
Classical Usage
| Author | Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | Republic | “The lesser (ἐλάσσων) of these evils is still an evil, though it may seem preferable to the greater.” |
| Aristotle | Nicomachean Ethics | “In every action, there is the lesser (ἐλάσσων) and the greater, and it is the mean that is virtuous.” |
| Homer | Iliad | “Achilles was no lesser (ἐλάσσων) hero, though his rage was great.” |
Summary of ἐλάσσων (G1640: elassōn)
The Greek word ἐλάσσων, meaning “lesser” or “inferior,” is a significant term in the New Testament, often used in contexts of comparison. It highlights themes of humility, social hierarchy, and the reversal of expected roles, as seen in passages like Romans 9:12 and Hebrews 7:7. Understanding this word provides deeper insight into the moral and social teachings of the New Testament, as well as into the cultural norms of the ancient world. Its usage in classical Greek literature further underscores its importance in discussions of ethics, virtue, and human behavior.
Did You Know?
Did you know that the word ἐλάσσων, while often associated with humility and inferiority, also carries a positive connotation in certain contexts? For instance, in philosophical discussions, being “lesser” can sometimes mean being more moderate or balanced, which was considered a virtue by many ancient Greek thinkers. This duality of meaning adds depth to the word’s usage in the New Testament, where it often conveys both humility and wisdom.
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