### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective μακρός (makrós, `{{G3117}}`) fundamentally denotes "long." Its etymological root is μῆκος (mēkos, `{{G3372}}`), meaning "length," from which μακρός derives its core sense of extended dimension. This extension can be understood in two primary ways: spatially and temporally. Spatially, it refers to physical distance, indicating something that is "far off" or "a long way." Temporally, it denotes duration, describing something that lasts "a long time" or is of "long continuance." The neuter plural form of μακρός can specifically refer to "long times" or "long periods." The versatility of this term allows it to describe physical attributes, geographical distances, or the passage of time, always emphasizing an extended or considerable measure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term μακρός (makrós, `{{G3117}}`) appears in the New Testament primarily to convey either spatial distance or temporal duration.
In its spatial sense, we see it describing physical distance:
* In the parable of the prodigal son, the younger son journeys to a "far country" (εἰς χώραν μακράν, [[Luke 15:13]]). Similarly, in the parable of the minas, the nobleman goes to a "far country" to receive a kingdom ([[Luke 19:12]]). These instances highlight geographical remoteness and the significant journey required to traverse such a distance.
* Paul's journey in [[Acts 27:27]] describes the sailors supposing they were approaching "far from the land" (μακρὰν ἀπὸ τῆς γῆς), indicating their distance from shore.
* Perhaps most profoundly, in Ephesians, Paul speaks of those who "were once far off" (οἱ ποτὲ μακρὰν) being brought near by the blood of Christ ([[Ephesians 2:13]]), and proclaiming peace to those "far off" and to those "near" ([[Ephesians 2:17]]). Here, "far off" carries a profound spiritual and relational distance from God and His covenant people, contrasting sharply with the "nearness" achieved through Christ.
In its temporal sense, μακρός refers to duration:
* In [[Mark 12:38]] and [[Luke 20:47]], Jesus critiques the scribes who "for a pretense make long prayers" (προφάσει μακρὰ προσευχόμενοι). Here, "long" refers to the extended duration of their prayers, implying a performance rather than genuine devotion. This usage highlights the superficiality of outward religious display when devoid of inner sincerity.
While less common than other adjectives, μακρός effectively paints a picture of significant extension, whether in space or time, often carrying implications beyond mere measurement.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct etymological relative of μακρός (makrós, `{{G3117}}`) is μῆκος (mēkos, `{{G3372}}`), the noun for "length" or "height," from which μακρός is derived. This foundational relationship underscores the core meaning of extended dimension.
Semantically, μακρός stands in contrast to words denoting "shortness" or "nearness." For example, the concept of "near" (ἐγγύς, engys, `{{G1451}}`) is often juxtaposed with "far" (μακρός), particularly in theological contexts like [[Ephesians 2:13]], where the "far" are brought "near."
Furthermore, the concept of "long" in time connects to other words describing duration, such as χρόνος (chronos, `{{G5550}}`) for "time" or καιρός (kairos, `{{G2540}}`) for "appointed time." While μακρός describes *how long* something is, these nouns describe *what* is long.
It is also important to note the related, but distinct, noun μακροθυμία (makrothymia, `{{G3115}}`), meaning "longsuffering" or "patience." While sharing the "long" (μακρο-) prefix, μακροθυμία specifically refers to a "longness of spirit" or "longness of temper," denoting patience and forbearance. Though not a direct usage of μακρός, the conceptual link of "longness" is evident, particularly in the context of enduring for a long period. This connection highlights how the idea of "long" can extend beyond mere physical or temporal measurement to describe character attributes.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of μακρός (makrós, `{{G3117}}`) is most profoundly observed in its spatial application, particularly within the Pauline epistles. The contrast between "far off" and "near" in [[Ephesians 2:13]] and [[Ephesians 2:17]] serves as a powerful metaphor for humanity's spiritual condition relative to God. Before Christ, Gentiles were "far off" from the covenant, from God's promises, and from the community of Israel. This distance was not merely geographical but represented a state of alienation, separation, and spiritual death. Christ's atoning work, however, bridges this immense spiritual chasm, bringing those who were "far off" into intimate "nearness" with God and with His people. This transformation from "far" to "near" is a central aspect of salvation, emphasizing the radical reconciliation achieved through the cross.
In its temporal sense, the "long prayers" critiqued by Jesus ([[Mark 12:38]], [[Luke 20:47]]) carry theological weight by exposing hypocrisy. The *duration* of the prayer becomes a performative act, devoid of genuine piety, thus highlighting the importance of sincerity and humility over outward display in worship. This serves as a warning against religious formalism that prioritizes appearance over substance.
While not directly using μακρός, the concept of "longness" also undergirds the theological virtue of longsuffering (μακροθυμία, `{{G3115}}`). God's own character is often described by His patience and forbearance, His willingness to endure for a "long time" before judgment, offering ample opportunity for repentance. This divine attribute, though expressed through a related term, resonates with the core meaning of μακρός, underscoring the extended nature of God's grace.
### Summary
The Greek adjective μακρός (makrós, `{{G3117}}`) signifies "long" in both spatial and temporal dimensions. Spatially, it describes physical distance, as seen in references to "far countries" or being "far from land." Theologically, this spatial sense is most potent in Ephesians, where it metaphorically describes the alienation of Gentiles who were "far off" from God, now brought "near" through Christ's redemptive work. Temporally, μακρός denotes extended duration, notably used to critique the "long prayers" of hypocritical scribes, emphasizing the value of sincerity over outward religious performance. Related to μῆκος (mēkos, `{{G3372}}`) for "length" and contrasting with concepts of "nearness," μακρός effectively conveys significant extension, whether in physical space, the passage of time, or profound spiritual distance, ultimately highlighting the transformative power of the Gospel to bridge the greatest chasm between humanity and God.
TRV