### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **elattonéō**, represented by `{{G1641}}`, means **to diminish** or **fall short**. Derived from ἐλάσσων, it conveys the idea to "have lack." Despite its significant meaning, it is used sparingly in scripture, appearing only **2 times** within **1 unique verses**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{G1641}}` is in [[2 Corinthians 8:15]], where it illustrates a principle of divine provision and equality. The verse states, "As it is written, He that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no **lack**." In this context, `{{G1641}}` is used to show that the one who collected a small amount did not **fall short** or experience a deficiency, highlighting a perfect balance where no one had too much and no one had too little.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in [[2 Corinthians 8:15]] help establish the context of sufficiency versus excess:
* `{{G4121}}` **pleonázō** (to do, make or be more, i.e. increase): This word is used to describe the state of the one who gathered much, who "had nothing **over**." It is the direct conceptual opposite of lacking.
* `{{G4183}}` **polýs** (much... or many): This describes the quantity gathered by the first person, who collected **much** but still ended up with no surplus.
* `{{G3641}}` **olígos** (few, (a) little, short, small): This describes the quantity gathered by the second person, who collected **little** but still had no lack.
* `{{G3756}}` **ou** (no or not): This absolute negative particle is paired with `{{G1641}}` to create the definitive statement of "had **no** lack," emphasizing the complete absence of want.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1641}}` is concentrated in its single usage, which powerfully illustrates a principle of divine economy.
* **Divine Sufficiency:** The word is used to affirm that in God's provision, gathering a **little** `{{G3641}}` does not lead to a state of lack. Those who seem to have less are not left to **fall short**.
* **Principle of Equality:** Its usage in [[2 Corinthians 8:15]] presents a model where there is neither hoarding nor deficiency. The outcome for the one who gathered **much** `{{G4183}}` and the one who gathered little was the same: sufficiency.
* **Scriptural Foundation:** The concept is introduced with the phrase "As it is **written** `{{G1125}}`," indicating that this principle of avoiding lack is a foundational truth rooted in scripture.
### Summary
In summary, though rare, `{{G1641}}` carries significant weight. Its appearance in [[2 Corinthians 8:15]] encapsulates a profound theological truth about God's provision. It teaches that true sufficiency is not measured by the amount one gathers, but by a divine balance that ensures no one must **have lack**. The word stands as a reminder that God's economy provides for needs without creating wasteful surplus or painful deficiency.
TRV