G3112

Unveiling the Word

In Biblical studies, understanding Greek words like μακράν (makran) is essential for grasping the nuances of scripture and their cultural context. μακράν appears in the New Testament in various contexts, often conveying the concept of distance, both physical and metaphorical. In Matthew 8:30, μακράν is used to describe the location of a herd of pigs “far away” from where Jesus was. This word’s significance lies not only in its literal sense of physical distance but also in its metaphorical usage, often indicating a separation from God or a state of being far removed from something important.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: μακράν (makran) [mah-KRAN]
Etymology: The root of μακράν comes from the word μακρός (makros), meaning “long” or “distant.” This term has connotations of both physical distance and time duration. It reflects the Greek cultural understanding of space and separation.
Part of Speech: Adverb. As an adverb, μακράν modifies verbs to indicate distance or separation. It is often used to describe physical spaces but also has figurative uses, indicating being distant in a spiritual or relational sense.
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Defining Meanings

1. Physical Distance: The primary meaning of μακράν is to denote something that is far away in terms of physical space. For example, in Matthew 8:30, it describes a herd of pigs “at some distance” from where Jesus was standing.
2. Metaphorical Distance: μακράν is also used in scripture to express spiritual or emotional distance. For instance, it can describe being far from God, as seen in passages like Ephesians 2:13, where Paul speaks of those who were once “far away” from God but are now brought near through Christ.
3. Temporal Distance: While less common, μακράν can also imply a sense of time or duration, indicating something that is distant in the future or past.

Exploring Similar Words

1. πόρρω (porrō) [POR-roh]: Another Greek word that means “far off” or “distant,” but often used in more figurative contexts, such as describing those distant from faith.
2. ἀπό (apo) [ah-PO]: A preposition meaning “from” or “away from,” frequently used to indicate a sense of separation or distance in a directional sense.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

μακράν is an adverb, and as such, it does not change form for gender, number, or case. Its morphological structure remains constant, used to modify verbs or adjectives. While it is not subject to declension like nouns or adjectives, its root μακρός can be declined.

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Studying Lexicon Insights

The word μακράν appears in various contexts throughout the New Testament, often conveying a sense of being far away, whether physically or spiritually. In the physical sense, as used in Matthew 8:30, it describes the distance of the herd of pigs from Jesus. However, lexicons also reveal its deeper metaphorical meaning, such as in Ephesians 2:13, where it describes the Gentiles who were once “far off” but have been brought near through Christ’s redemptive work.

In classical usage, μακράν is frequently found in literature describing both geographical distances and metaphorical separation, such as being far from safety or far from home.
This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Matthew 8:30: “Now a herd of many pigs was feeding at some distance [μακράν] from them.”
2. Ephesians 2:13: “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off [μακράν] have been brought near by the blood of Christ.”
3. Luke 15:20: “And while he was still a long way off [μακράν], his father saw him and felt compassion.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature, μακράν is used similarly to denote distance or separation. For example, it appears in works by Herodotus and other historians to describe the physical distance between cities or armies. In the Septuagint, μακράν often describes the separation between Israel and God during times of disobedience.

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word μακράν is a simple yet profound term that appears in both literal and figurative contexts in the New Testament. Its basic meaning of “far away” or “at a distance” is often used to describe physical spaces but extends to spiritual separation as well. Understanding the nuances of μακράν enhances the interpretation of several key passages, especially in relation to Christ’s work of reconciliation. The word connects the idea of distance, whether physical or metaphorical, with the themes of redemption and restoration.

Did You Know?

1. μακράν can indicate both physical and spiritual distance, making it a versatile term in Biblical contexts.
2. The concept of being “far off” is often contrasted with “drawing near” in the New Testament, symbolizing reconciliation with God.
3. In classical literature, μακράν was used to describe not only distance but also separation from loved ones or safety.