### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **legeṓn**, represented by `{{G3003}}`, is of Latin origin and refers to a **"legion"** or Roman regiment. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. Figuratively, it is used to convey the idea of a very large, organized number.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3003}}` is used in two primary contexts. It is most famously employed by a demonic entity when questioned by Jesus about its name. The response is, "My name is **Legion**: for we are many" [[Mark 5:9]]. The account in Luke provides a similar explanation, stating the name was **Legion** "because many devils were entered into him" [[Luke 8:30]]. In contrast, Jesus uses the term to describe the immense heavenly power at His disposal, stating He could pray to His Father and receive "more than twelve **legions** of angels" [[Matthew 26:53]]. The power of Jesus over the demonic host is shown when people later see the man who had the **legion** "sitting, and clothed, and in his right mind" [[Mark 5:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of **legeṓn**:
* `{{G1140}}` **daimónion** (a dæmonic being): This word identifies the members of the legion that possessed the man. The name was used because "many **devils**" had entered him [[Luke 8:30]].
* `{{G4183}}` **polýs** (many): This adjective gives the explicit reason for the name **Legion**, as the spirit explains, "we are **many**" [[Mark 5:9]].
* `{{G32}}` **ángelos** (a messenger; especially an "angel"): This term is used in contrast to the demonic legion, quantifying the vast heavenly army available to Jesus, who could call upon "twelve legions of **angels**" [[Matthew 26:53]].
* `{{G4993}}` **sōphronéō** (to be of sound mind): This describes the state of the man after Jesus cast out the **legion**, demonstrating Christ's restorative power. The man was seen clothed and "**in his right mind**" [[Mark 5:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3003}}` is significant, illustrating concepts of spiritual power and authority.
* **The Scale of Demonic Opposition:** The use of **legion** to name a demonic force communicates an overwhelming and organized multitude of evil spirits arrayed against humanity [[Mark 5:9]].
* **Christ's Supreme Authority:** Jesus's ability to command and expel a **legion** of demons with a word demonstrates His absolute authority over all demonic powers. His power brings complete restoration to the one who was possessed [[Mark 5:15]].
* **The Magnitude of Heavenly Power:** When Jesus speaks of "twelve **legions** of angels," He uses the term to provide a scale for the immense, untapped divine power He could have summoned for His defense, underscoring the voluntary nature of His sacrifice [[Matthew 26:53]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3003}}` **legeṓn** is more than a simple number; it is a powerful descriptor of a vast, organized force. It is used to illustrate both the sheer scale of demonic forces active in the world and the infinitely greater power of the heavenly armies at Christ's command. The term powerfully frames the conflict between good and evil, ultimately highlighting Christ's complete and undisputed authority over any power, worldly or spiritual.
TRV