### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **lían**, represented by `{{G3029}}`, is an adverb used to express a high degree of intensity. It appears 14 times across 14 unique verses and is translated as **exceeding**, **great(-ly)**, **sore**, or **very**. Its primary function is to magnify the quality, action, or state it modifies, emphasizing the extent or significance of the word it describes.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{G3029}}` is used to highlight moments of extreme significance or powerful emotion. It describes the intensity of a state, such as the demon-possessed men being "exceeding fierce" [[Matthew 8:28]] or Herod being "exceeding wroth" [[Matthew 2:16]]. It also qualifies physical attributes, as when the devil shows Jesus the kingdoms of the world from an "exceeding high mountain" [[Matthew 4:8]]. Furthermore, it emphasizes the profound reactions of individuals to divine acts, such as the disciples being "sore amazed" [[Mark 6:51]] or a governor who "marvelled greatly" [[Matthew 27:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words are directly intensified by `{{G3029}}`, illustrating its function as an amplifier:
* `{{G1839}}` **exístēmi** (amaze, be astonished): This verb describes being astounded or put out of one's wits. It is intensified by `{{G3029}}` when the disciples become "sore amazed" at Jesus' power [[Mark 6:51]].
* `{{G3022}}` **leukós** (white): This adjective is used to describe the purity and brilliance of Jesus' garments during the transfiguration, which became "exceeding white as snow" [[Mark 9:3]].
* `{{G652}}` **apóstolos** (apostle): This noun, meaning a delegate or ambassador, is used with `{{G3029}}` to denote a specific rank or perceived prominence, as in "the very chiefest apostles" [[2 Corinthians 11:5]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G3029}}` carries theological weight by underscoring the magnitude of key spiritual realities and events.
* **Intensity of Divine Manifestation:** The word is used to describe the supernatural brilliance of Jesus' raiment at the transfiguration, which became "exceeding white" [[Mark 9:3]], highlighting the purity and glory of the divine nature.
* **Intensity of Human Reaction:** It marks the profound effect of Jesus' ministry on people, from the "exceeding glad" reaction of Herod upon seeing him [[Luke 23:8]] to the great joy felt by believers walking in the truth [[2 John 1:4]].
* **Intensity of Spiritual Opposition:** The term is also applied to forces opposing God's work, such as the "exceeding fierce" nature of the demon-possessed men [[Matthew 8:28]] or an individual who has "greatly withstood" the apostles' words [[2 Timothy 4:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3029}}` is a crucial adverb that does more than simply mean "very" or "much." It is a literary marker that signals to the reader a moment of heightened importance, whether it be an extreme emotion, a supernatural quality, or a significant spiritual state. By intensifying the words it modifies, **lían** elevates the narrative and emphasizes the profound nature of divine encounters and spiritual realities within the scriptures.
TRV