### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **makários**, represented by `{{G3107}}`, describes a state of being **supremely blest**, fortunate, or happy. It appears 50 times across 49 unique verses, often translated as 'blessed' or 'happy.' The term signifies a profound joy and well-being that is rooted in a right relationship with God, rather than worldly circumstances.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3107}}` is used in several key contexts, most notably in the Beatitudes. It describes a paradoxical state of divine favor bestowed upon those in conditions the world might not consider fortunate, such as the "poor in spirit" [[Matthew 5:3]], "they that mourn" [[Matthew 5:4]], and those who hunger for righteousness [[Matthew 5:6]]. The term also defines the reward for spiritual endurance and obedience, applied to the one who "endureth temptation" [[James 1:12]] and those who "hear the word of God, and keep it" [[Luke 11:28]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to illuminate the nature and outcome of being **makários**:
* `{{G5278}}` **hypoménō** (to endure, persevere): This describes the fortitude required to attain blessedness. It is the quality of the person who is called blessed for enduring temptation [[James 1:12]].
* `{{G4100}}` **pisteúō** (to have faith, believe): Faith is a foundational action that leads to this blessed state. Jesus declares blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed [[John 20:29]].
* `{{G1070}}` **geláō** (to laugh): This points to the future joy that is the outcome of a blessed state, promising that those who weep now will one day laugh [[Luke 6:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3107}}` is significant, redefining the concept of true happiness and well-being.
* **Paradoxical Blessing:** The term establishes that God's favor rests on those who are humble and suffering, not the powerful or prosperous. The blessed are the poor in spirit [[Matthew 5:3]], those who mourn [[Matthew 5:4]], and those who are persecuted [[Matthew 5:10]].
* **Conditional on Action:** Blessedness is consistently linked to righteous action and obedience. It is promised to those who "do his commandments" [[Revelation 22:14]] and to the one who is a "doer of the work" of the law [[James 1:25]].
* **Divine Source and Revelation:** This state is not self-generated but is a gift from God. Simon Peter is called blessed because his knowledge came not from "flesh and blood" but from the Father in heaven [[Matthew 16:17]]. God Himself is described as "the blessed God" [[1 Timothy 1:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3107}}` is much more than a simple feeling of happiness. It is a foundational New Testament concept describing a state of divine approval and spiritual prosperity. This blessedness is often achieved through trials, persecution, and faithful obedience, standing in stark contrast to worldly definitions of success. It highlights a core Christian truth: that true, enduring joy comes from God alone.
TRV