μεγαλεῖος

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word megaleîos, represented by G3167, refers to magnificent acts, translated as great things or wonderful works. It is derived from μέγας and appears 2 times in 2 unique verses, describing a conspicuous favor or divine perfection.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

In its biblical occurrences, G3167 exclusively describes the mighty acts of God. In Mary's song of praise, she declares that "he that is mighty" has done "great things" for her, connecting the act to the holiness of His name Luke 1:49. At Pentecost, a multinational crowd heard the disciples speak in their own languages about the "wonderful works of God" Acts 2:11, highlighting these acts as a subject for universal proclamation.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words help clarify the source and expression of these magnificent works:

• G1415 dynatós (powerful or capable): This word identifies the source of the action in Luke 1:49, where "he that is mighty" is the one who performs the great things.
• G2316 theós (a deity, especially... the supreme Divinity): This identifies God as the author of the acts in Acts 2:11, where the crowd hears about the "wonderful works of God."
• G2980 laléō (to talk, i.e. utter words): This describes the human response to God's deeds. The disciples speak of the wonderful works of God, making them known to others Acts 2:11.

Theological Significance

The theological significance of G3167 is centered on the revelation of God's power and character through His actions.

• Divine Agency: The term is used solely to describe acts performed by God, whether called "great things" Luke 1:49 or the "wonderful works of God" Acts 2:11. This emphasizes that such magnificent deeds originate from Him alone.
• Cause for Proclamation: God's works are not meant to be hidden. They are proclaimed both personally, as Mary does Luke 1:49, and publicly, as the disciples do at Pentecost Acts 2:11. These works form the basis of testimony.
• A Sign of God's Character: The "great things" done by God reveal His nature as mighty G1415 and His name G3686 as holy G40 Luke 1:49.

Summary

In summary, G3167 is a specific term for the magnificent works of God. Though rare, its usage powerfully conveys that God's conspicuous favors and mighty acts are a primary reason for praise and testimony. It captures both the personal experience of God's intervention and the public proclamation of His divine power.