### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **makróthen**, represented by `{{G3113}}`, is an adverb meaning **from a distance or afar**. It appears **14 times** across **14 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is used to describe not only physical distance but also relational, spiritual, and emotional separation or observation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical accounts, `{{G3113}}` is used to frame pivotal moments from a distant perspective. It describes Peter following Jesus **afar off** into the high priest's palace, a mix of fear and loyalty ([[Matthew 26:58]], [[Luke 22:54]]). During the crucifixion, women who had followed Jesus stood **afar off**, beholding the event ([[Luke 23:49]], [[Matthew 27:55]]). The term also depicts spiritual states, such as the publican who, feeling unworthy, stands **afar off** to pray [[Luke 18:13]], and the rich man in **hell** `{{G86}}` who sees Abraham **afar** off [[Luke 16:23]]. In a different context, a man sees Jesus from **afar off** and runs to **worship** `{{G4352}}` him [[Mark 5:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which distance is portrayed:
* `{{G190}}` **akolouthéō** (to follow): This word is used to describe Peter's action of following Jesus **afar off** [[Mark 14:54]], highlighting a discipleship maintained from a distance due to fear.
* `{{G2476}}` **hístēmi** (to stand): This word often describes the posture of those who are **afar off**, whether it is the publican in prayer [[Luke 18:13]], the women at the cross [[Luke 23:49]], or the merchants watching Babylon's judgment in fear [[Revelation 18:10]].
* `{{G2334}}` **theōréō** (to be a spectator of, discern): The women at the crucifixion are described as **looking** `{{G2334}}` on **afar off** [[Mark 15:40]], emphasizing their role as distant witnesses to a critical event.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G3113}}` is evident in its varied applications, illustrating different postures of humanity in relation to the divine.
* **Humility and Reverence:** The publican stands **afar off** `{{G3113}}` out of a sense of unworthiness, a posture of humility that is ultimately honored [[Luke 18:13]]. This contrasts with the Pharisee who prays to himself.
* **Fearful Awe of Judgment:** In Revelation, merchants and sailors **stand** `{{G2476}}` **afar off** out of **fear** `{{G5401}}` of Babylon's **torment** `{{G929}}`, watching its destruction from a safe distance ([[Revelation 18:10]], [[Revelation 18:15]]). This distance underscores the terror of divine judgment.
* **Spiritual Separation:** The great chasm separating the rich man in **hell** `{{G86}}` from Abraham is visualized by him seeing Abraham and **Lazarus** `{{G2976}}` **afar off**, signifying an irreversible state of alienation [[Luke 16:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3113}}` is far more than a simple indicator of physical space. It is a powerful adverb that communicates profound spiritual and emotional realities. Whether depicting the fearful loyalty of a disciple, the humble posture of a sinner, the awe-filled horror of judgment, or the ultimate separation in the afterlife, **makróthen** shows how distance can be a defining element of the human experience before God.
TRV