Brief Overview of μακρόθεν (Strong’s G3113: makrothen)

Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies enhances the depth and meaning of scripture. The word μακρόθεν (makrothen), first appearing in Matthew 26:58, is a significant term that adds layers of understanding to passages dealing with physical or emotional distance. It is often used to describe something happening or someone observing “from a distance,” which carries both literal and figurative implications. Its relevance is especially profound in the New Testament, where it often conveys a sense of separation, whether physical, spiritual, or emotional.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: μακρόθεν (makrothen) [mah-KRO-then]
Etymology: The root of μακρόθεν comes from μακρός (makros), which means “long” or “far.” The suffix -θεν is used to indicate origin or point of action, thus μακρόθεν translates to “from a distance” or “from afar.”
Part of Speech: Adverb. As an adverb, μακρόθεν modifies verbs to describe actions taking place at a distance. It is used in a variety of contexts, both in terms of physical distance and metaphorical separation.
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Defining Meanings

1. Physical Distance: The primary meaning of μακρόθεν is “from a distance.” In Matthew 26:58, it is used to describe Peter following Jesus “at a distance” after His arrest, illustrating his hesitancy and fear of being too closely associated with Him.
2. Emotional Distance: While its primary usage relates to physical space, μακρόθεν can also imply emotional or relational distance. It is sometimes used to convey the idea of being distanced from someone in terms of relationship or understanding.
3. Metaphorical Separation: In a spiritual sense, μακρόθεν can be used to describe those who are far from God, as in Luke 16:23, where the rich man sees Abraham “from afar,” symbolizing his spiritual separation.

Exploring Similar Words

1. ἀπό (apo) [ah-PO]: A preposition that means “from” or “away from,” indicating separation or distance. While ἀπό is often used for more immediate or close separation, μακρόθεν emphasizes a greater distance.
2. πόρρωθεν (porrothen) [PO-ro-then]: Similar to μακρόθεν, this word also means “from afar,” but it often carries a stronger implication of great distance or separation.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As an adverb, μακρόθεν does not change form based on case, number, or gender. It remains consistent in its usage and is primarily used to modify verbs, indicating the manner or location of an action.

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Studying Lexicon Insights

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The word μακρόθεν is commonly used in the New Testament to indicate physical or metaphorical distance. In Matthew 26:58, it conveys Peter’s fearful but curious stance as he follows Jesus after His arrest. Lexicons highlight its role in marking spatial separation, but its deeper usage often underscores a spiritual or emotional detachment, as seen in Luke 16:23, where the rich man sees Abraham from afar. This emphasizes the irreversible spiritual chasm between the two.

In classical Greek, μακρόθεν appears in literature to describe both physical and relational distances. It often implies observation or action from a far-off vantage point.
This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Matthew 26:58: “And Peter was following Him at a distance [μακρόθεν], as far as the courtyard of the high priest.”
2. Luke 16:23: “In Hades, he lifted up his eyes, being in torment, and saw Abraham far away [μακρόθεν] and Lazarus in his bosom.”
3. Mark 5:6: “When he saw Jesus from a distance [μακρόθεν], he ran and bowed down before Him.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature, μακρόθεν is commonly used to indicate both physical and metaphorical distances. For example, in Homer’s Iliad, it describes warriors observing from afar, and in Herodotus, it is used to indicate geographical distances.

Noteworthy Summary

The word μακρόθεν carries both literal and figurative connotations, making it a versatile term in the New Testament. Its primary usage is to indicate physical distance, as seen in Peter’s cautious following of Jesus after His arrest. However, it can also imply emotional or spiritual separation, as in the rich man’s distance from Abraham in the afterlife. Understanding μακρόθεν helps to highlight themes of separation and proximity, whether physical or spiritual, throughout scripture.

Did You Know?

1. μακρόθεν is used to describe both physical distance, like Peter following Jesus, and spiritual distance, as in the parable of Lazarus and the rich man.
2. In classical literature, μακρόθεν often indicated a vantage point from which one observed events at a distance, giving a sense of detachment.
3. The term is not only relevant in a physical context but also in terms of emotional or relational distance, highlighting separation in relationships or understanding.