### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **elássōn**, represented by `{{G1640}}`, is a comparative term meaning smaller in size, quantity, age, or quality. It is translated as **less**, **under**, **worse**, or **younger**. This word appears **4 times** in **4 unique verses**, demonstrating a focused but varied application across different contexts in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G1640}}` is applied in several distinct ways. It is used to establish a principle of spiritual hierarchy, where "the **less** is blessed of the better" [[Hebrews 7:7]]. It can denote a lower quality, as in the description of wine that is **worse** [[John 2:10]]. The term also refers to age, both in setting a minimum requirement for widows being taken into the number "**under** threescore years old" [[1 Timothy 5:9]] and in a prophetic declaration that the elder would serve the **younger** [[Romans 9:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide contrast and expand upon the concepts of comparison and hierarchy:
* `{{G2909}}` **kreíttōn**: This word means "better" or "nobler" and often appears in contexts highlighting superior spiritual realities, such as a **better** covenant [[Hebrews 8:6]] or a **better** resurrection [[Hebrews 11:35]]. It is the direct counterpart to `{{G1640}}` in [[Hebrews 7:7]].
* `{{G3187}}` **meízōn**: Meaning "larger" or "greater," this term is used to compare importance, magnitude, or age. It is notably used to describe how the "elder shall serve the younger" [[Romans 9:12]] and to declare that "charity" is the **greatest** of faith, hope, and charity [[1 Corinthians 13:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological and practical weight of `{{G1640}}` is significant for its rarity. It illustrates key principles through comparison.
* **Spiritual Authority:** The statement in [[Hebrews 7:7]] that the **less** is blessed by the better establishes a foundational principle of spiritual order and authority, where blessing flows from a higher position to a lower one.
* **Sovereign Election:** In [[Romans 9:12]], the word **younger** is pivotal in the account of Jacob and Esau. It underscores God's sovereign choice, which subverts natural human expectations of birthright and primogeniture.
* **Qualitative and Chronological Measure:** The uses in [[John 2:10]] (**worse**) and [[1 Timothy 5:9]] (**under**) show the word's role in making both qualitative judgments and setting practical, chronological boundaries for church life.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1640}}` is a versatile comparative term. While used sparingly, its applications are precise and impactful, conveying concepts of quality, age, and status. From the quality of wine at a wedding to the profound theological principle of divine election and spiritual hierarchy, **elássōn** provides a critical lens for understanding comparison and order within the biblical text.
TRV