### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **megalauchéō**, represented by `{{G3166}}`, is defined as to **talk big**, be grandiloquent, arrogant, or egotistic. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. The word is a compound, and its meaning is directly tied to the concept of making great or large boasts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{G3166}}` is found in a powerful analogy about the power of speech. In [[James 3:5]], the tongue is described as a **little** `{{G3398}}` **member** `{{G3196}}` that nonetheless **boasteth great things** `{{G3166}}`. The verse immediately follows this statement with a comparison to illustrate the immense impact of such boasting: "Behold `{{G2400}}`, how great `{{G2245}}` a matter `{{G5208}}` a little `{{G3641}}` fire `{{G4442}}` kindleth `{{G381}}`!" This context firmly establishes that to "boast great things" is to wield a dangerous and disproportionate power, much like a small spark in a large forest.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words from its only context help clarify the meaning of `{{G3166}}`:
* `{{G1100}}` **glōssa** (tongue): This is the part of the body identified as the source of the boasting. The danger of the tongue is emphasized elsewhere, where it is called "a fire, a world of iniquity" that can defile the whole body [[James 3:6]].
* `{{G3398}}` **mikrós** (little): This word, meaning small in size or dignity, provides the crucial contrast. The power of `{{G3166}}` comes from something described as **little**. This theme of small things having significance is seen elsewhere, as in having a "little strength" [[Revelation 3:8]].
* `{{G3196}}` **mélos** (member): This specifies the tongue as a part of a larger whole. The Bible uses this concept to explain how each part of the body, or the church, contributes to the whole, as in "the body is one, and hath many members" [[1 Corinthians 12:12]].
* `{{G4442}}` **pŷr** (fire): This is the metaphor used to describe the destructive outcome of the tongue's great boasts. The connection is made explicit when James states that "the tongue is a fire" [[James 3:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3166}}` is concentrated in its single appearance, offering a profound warning.
* **The Power of Words:** The primary lesson is the disproportionate power of speech. The act of "boasting great things" highlights how words, though intangible, can have massive, destructive consequences, just as a small spark **kindleth** a great fire [[James 3:5]].
* **The Sin of Arrogance:** The definition of `{{G3166}}` includes being arrogant and egotistic. Its use in scripture frames this kind of speech not as harmless bragging but as a spiritually dangerous act. It is a product of a heart that, like a fire, can set a destructive course in motion [[James 3:6]].
* **The Small Source of Great Corruption:** The contrast between the "little member" (the tongue) and the "great things" it boasts illustrates a key spiritual principle. It shows how a small, unbridled part of one's life can lead to widespread damage, defiling the "whole body" [[James 3:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3166}}` is a highly specific term whose single scriptural appearance delivers a potent and memorable lesson. Used in [[James 3:5]], **megalauchéō** captures the essence of arrogant, boastful speech and its capacity for destruction. It serves as a powerful reminder that even the smallest **member** `{{G3196}}` of the body, the **tongue** `{{G1100}}`, can ignite a devastating **fire** `{{G4442}}` through its proud and great boasts.
TRV