Unveiling the Word

In biblical studies, understanding Greek words like μεγαλύνω (megalýnō) is essential for grasping the nuances of New Testament language and its cultural context. This word, first appearing in Matthew 23:5, is particularly significant because it conveys the act of making something great, whether through praise, amplification, or exaltation. It is a versatile verb that can be used both in positive contexts, such as magnifying God’s name, and in negative contexts, like drawing attention to oneself. The study of μεγαλύνω helps us appreciate the various ways greatness and honor are expressed in the Bible and how they reflect the values of both the early Christian community and ancient Greek culture.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: Μεγαλύνω, transliterated as megalýnō, pronounced [meh-gah-LEE-no].

Etymology: Derived from the root word μέγας (mégas), meaning “great” or “large,” combined with the verb suffix -ύνω, which indicates the process of making or becoming. The word μεγαλύνω literally means “to make great” or “to magnify,” signifying an action that elevates or amplifies the importance of something or someone.

Part of Speech: Verb. Μεγαλύνω is used as a verb to describe the act of magnifying, exalting, or praising. It can be used both transitively (to make something great) and intransitively (to become great). It follows the regular conjugation patterns of Greek verbs and appears in various tenses and voices.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

1. To Magnify: This primary meaning involves exalting or praising someone or something, often in the context of worship or honor. It is frequently used in the New Testament to describe the act of glorifying God.
2. To Make Great: Refers to the process of increasing the perceived importance or size of something, whether literally or figuratively.
3. To Boast or Show Off: In negative contexts, μεγαλύνω can indicate the act of drawing undue attention to oneself or one’s actions, as seen in Matthew 23:5, where the Pharisees are criticized for enlarging their phylacteries to appear more pious.

Exploring Similar Words

1. Υψόω (hypsóō) [hoop-SO-oh]: Meaning “to exalt” or “to lift up,” this verb emphasizes elevation or raising in status, often used in contexts of lifting someone up metaphorically or physically.
2. Εξαίρω (exairō) [ex-AI-roh]: This word means “to exalt” or “to lift up,” similar to μεγαλύνω, but with a focus on raising someone or something above others in rank or dignity.
3. Καυχάομαι (kaucháomai) [kow-KHA-oh-my]: Meaning “to boast” or “to glory,” this verb often carries a negative connotation of self-exaltation or bragging, unlike μεγαλύνω, which can be used in both positive and negative senses.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Tense, Voice, Mood:

• Present Tense: μεγαλύνω (I magnify)
• Future Tense: μεγαλυνῶ (I will magnify)
• Aorist Tense: ἐμεγάλυνα (I magnified)
• Perfect Tense: μεμεγάλυκα (I have magnified)
• Pluperfect Tense: ἐμεμεγάλυκειν (I had magnified)

Voice and Mood:

• Active Voice: Indicates that the subject is performing the action.
• Passive Voice: The subject is receiving the action, e.g., “I am magnified.”
• Indicative Mood: States facts or asks questions.
• Subjunctive Mood: Expresses doubt, possibility, or wish.
• Imperative Mood: Gives commands or requests.

Person and Number:

• 1st Person Singular: μεγαλύνω (I magnify)
• 2nd Person Singular: μεγαλύνεις (you magnify)
• 3rd Person Singular: μεγαλύνει (he/she/it magnifies)
• 1st Person Plural: μεγαλύνομεν (we magnify)
• 2nd Person Plural: μεγαλύνετε (you [all] magnify)
• 3rd Person Plural: μεγαλύνουσιν (they magnify)

Conjugation Table for Present Indicative Active:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

Μεγαλύνω is used in various contexts throughout the New Testament, often to express the act of magnifying or glorifying God. In Luke 1:46, Mary’s song of praise begins with “My soul magnifies [μεγαλύνει] the Lord,” indicating her deep reverence and worship. In classical Greek literature, the word was used similarly to describe acts of praise or the exaggeration of one’s deeds. Theologically, μεγαλύνω serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and the right orientation of praise, contrasting the self-exaltation criticized in passages like Matthew 23:5. This term underscores the call to honor God above all, recognizing His greatness rather than seeking human recognition.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Matthew 23:5: “But all their works they do to be seen by men. They make broad [μεγαλύνουσιν] their phylacteries and enlarge the borders of their garments.”
2. Luke 1:46: “And Mary said, ‘My soul magnifies [μεγαλύνει] the Lord.’”
3. Acts 19:17: “This became known to all, both Jews and Greeks, who lived in Ephesus; and fear fell upon them all and the name of the Lord Jesus was being magnified [μεγαλύνετο].”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

Μεγαλύνω, meaning “to magnify” or “to make great,” is a versatile verb used in both the New Testament and classical Greek literature to describe acts of praise, exaltation, or amplification. It is central to understanding how the New Testament portrays worship and the proper orientation of praise toward God. The word can also carry negative connotations when referring to self-exaltation, as seen in Matthew 23:5. Morphologically, it follows regular Greek conjugation patterns, adapting to various tenses and voices. The study of μεγαλύνω enriches our understanding of biblical worship and humility, highlighting the contrast between God’s greatness and human pride.

Did You Know?

1. Μεγαλύνω is related to the English word “magnify,” reflecting its function of making something appear greater or more significant.
2. The word μεγαλύνω appears six times in the New Testament, primarily in contexts of praising or glorifying God.
3. In the Septuagint, μεγαλύνω is used frequently in the Psalms to encourage the community to praise and exalt God together, demonstrating its communal and worshipful significance.