The Greek word elattóō, represented by G1642, means to lessen in rank or influence. It is used to convey the concepts of decreasing or being made lower. Despite its significant theological implications, it appears only 5 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible, highlighting its specific and powerful application.
In its biblical usage, G1642 carries a dual meaning of both status and influence. In the book of Hebrews, it is used twice in the same context to describe how Jesus was made lower than the angels (Hebrews 2:7, Hebrews 2:9). This lowering was temporary and for a specific purpose: "the suffering of death." In contrast, John the Baptist uses the word to describe his own diminishing public role in relation to Jesus, stating, "He must increase, but I must decrease" John 3:30. Here, the word signifies a willing reduction of one's own prominence.
Several related words help clarify the context and consequence of being made lower:
- G837 auxánō (to grow, increase): This word is used as the direct opposite of G1642 in John 3:30, where John the Baptist declares that Jesus must increase as he decreases, establishing a clear contrast in their respective missions.
- G991 blépō (to look at, see, perceive): In Hebrews 2:9, the act of seeing Jesus is tied to understanding his temporary humiliation. The verse states, "But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower," indicating that this lowering is a truth to be perceived by faith.
- G4737 stephanóō (to crown): This word is used immediately after G1642 in Hebrews to show the result of Christ's humbling. After being made lower, he was crowned with glory and honor (Hebrews 2:7, Hebrews 2:9).
- G2525 kathístēmi (to appoint, make, set): Following the lowering and crowning, Hebrews 2:7 notes that God did set him over the works of His hands, showing a restoration to a position of ultimate authority.
The theological weight of G1642 is focused on the concepts of humility and divine purpose.
- Christ's Humiliation: The word is central to the doctrine of Christ's incarnation. It describes his voluntary act of being made lower than the angels, a necessary step so that he could "taste death for every man" Hebrews 2:9. This was not a defeat but a purposeful lowering that led to his exaltation.
- The Model of Service: John the Baptist's use of the word in the statement, "I must decrease" John 3:30, provides a powerful model for Christian service. It illustrates the principle of humbling oneself so that the focus and glory can be rightly directed toward Christ.
In summary, G1642 is a precise term that communicates a profound theological truth. Whether describing Christ being made lower than the angels as part of God's plan for salvation or the call for a believer to decrease in their own importance, the word encapsulates a foundational principle of the faith: that a temporary lessening in status or influence can lead to a greater, God-ordained purpose and glory.
TRV