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Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies offers profound insights into the language, culture, and theology of the New Testament. The Greek word μικρόν (mikrón) is particularly significant due to its frequent usage in both literal and metaphorical contexts, translating to “a little” or “small.” This term appears in passages that emphasize temporal or quantitative brevity, including moments of waiting or small amounts. One notable occurrence is in Matthew 26:39, where it highlights the brief moment before Jesus prays in the Garden of Gethsemane. Understanding μικρόν helps to grasp the concept of shortness in time or size, giving readers a fuller picture of the context in which the word is used.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: μικρόν (mikrón), pronounced mee-KRON.

Etymology: The word μικρόν comes from the root μικρός (mikros), which means “small” or “little.” This root also gives rise to modern English terms like “micro,” which is used to denote something tiny or brief.

Part of Speech: μικρόν is used as a neuter singular adjective or adverb. When used adjectivally, it modifies nouns to indicate smallness or insignificance. As an adverb, it emphasizes brevity in time or quantity.

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Defining Meanings

1. A Little (Adjective): In its adjectival form, μικρόν describes something physically or metaphorically small. It can refer to small amounts, short periods, or a lack of significance in size or value. For instance, in Matthew 26:39, it signifies a short period of time before Jesus prays.

2. For a Short Time (Adverb): When μικρόν is used adverbially, it indicates brevity in time, as in “a little while.” This is seen in several New Testament passages where it denotes a small period of waiting or action.

3. Small in Quantity: The word can also describe small amounts, whether referring to physical measurements or metaphorical references to limited resources or influence.

Exploring Similar Words

1. Μικρός (mikros): Pronounced mee-KROS, this is the base form of μικρόν and refers to something that is small in size or stature. It is the root word for many English terms like “micro” (microscope, microcosm), emphasizing smallness.

2. Ολίγος (oligos): Pronounced oh-LEE-gos, this word means “few” or “little” in number or amount. While μικρόν focuses on size or duration, oligos emphasizes a limited number or quantity.

3. Βραχύς (brachys): Pronounced BRAK-his, this word means “short” in terms of time or distance, often used to describe a brief span of time or small distance, much like μικρόν but more focused on spatial or temporal brevity.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender: As an adjective, μικρόν agrees with the noun it modifies in gender, number, and case. It is neuter singular in Matthew 26:39.

Case Singular (Neuter)

Nominative μικρόν

Genitive μικροῦ

Dative μικρῷ

Accusative μικρόν

Declension: μικρόν follows the first and second declension patterns, depending on the gender it modifies. In neuter singular, it conforms to the second declension.

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Studying Lexicon Insights

Lexicon insights show that μικρόν frequently refers to moments of waiting or pauses before significant actions. In Matthew 26:39, it indicates a brief moment before Jesus prays in Gethsemane, underscoring His resolve amidst His impending suffering. Various lexicons emphasize the usage of μικρόν in both temporal and spatial senses, drawing attention to small periods of time or small quantities.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Matthew 26:39: “And He went a little [μικρόν] farther, and fell on His face, and prayed…”

2. John 16:16: “A little [μικρόν] while, and you will not see Me; and again, a little [μικρόν] while, and you will see Me…”

3. Hebrews 10:37: “For yet a little [μικρόν] while, and He who is coming will come and will not delay.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work Text with μικρόν

Plato Republic “A little [μικρόν] time remains before we must depart.”

Herodotus Histories “In a little [μικρόν] while, the army gathered at the city.”

Septuagint Isaiah 26:20 “For a little [μικρόν] moment, hide yourself until the wrath passes.”

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word μικρόν (mikrón) is central to understanding moments of brevity in the New Testament. Whether it is used to describe short periods of time or small amounts, μικρόν highlights the transient nature of certain experiences. In Matthew 26:39, the word draws attention to the brief pause before Jesus prays, emphasizing the weight of the moment. This term appears throughout the New Testament, revealing the importance of brief periods and small quantities in the grand narrative of Scripture.

Did You Know?

• The term μικρόν is the root of modern English words like “micro” (microscope, microcosm).

• In the New Testament, μικρόν often precedes pivotal moments, such as in Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane.

• Μικρόν can denote both physical smallness and brevity of time, making it a versatile word in Greek literature.