### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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.
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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