### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective μεγαλοπρεπής (megaloprepḗs, `{{G3169}}`) is a compound word derived from μέγας (megas, `{{G3173}}`), meaning "great" or "large," and πρέπω (prepō, `{{G4241}}`), meaning "to be fitting," "becoming," or "appropriate." Thus, its core meaning conveys the idea of "befitting greatness," "magnificent," "majestic," or "splendid." It describes that which is worthy of, or suitable for, a great person or a great occasion. The term denotes an inherent quality of grandeur and a fittingness to a high status or divine nature. It is not merely "great" in size or scale, but "great" in a way that is inherently proper and honorable.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term μεγαλοπρεπής (megaloprepḗs, `{{G3169}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, found in [[2 Peter 1:17]]. The context is Peter's recounting of the Transfiguration of Jesus Christ, an event he witnessed firsthand. Peter states, "For when He received honor and glory from God the Father, such an utterance as this was made to Him by the Majestic Glory: 'This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well-pleased.'" The phrase in question is ἐκ τῆς μεγαλοπρεποῦς δόξης (ek tēs megaloprepous doxēs), translated as "from the excellent glory" (NASB) or "from the Majestic Glory" (ESV).
Here, μεγαλοπρεπής modifies δόξα (doxa, `{{G1391}}`), "glory." This is not just any glory, but a glory that is inherently "fitting for greatness" or "majestic." It underscores the unparalleled nature of the divine manifestation at the Transfiguration. The voice that spoke from this glory was God the Father's, affirming Jesus' divine Sonship. The use of μεγαλοπρεπής emphasizes that the glory from which the voice emanated was not merely impressive, but possessed a quality of grandeur and appropriateness uniquely belonging to the divine presence. It highlights the absolute dignity and authority of the Father's declaration concerning His Son, lending immense weight and authenticity to the event and to Christ's identity.
### Related Words & Concepts
As a compound, μεγαλοπρεπής (megaloprepḗs, `{{G3169}}`) is directly related to its constituent parts: μέγας (megas, `{{G3173}}`), "great," and πρέπω (prepō, `{{G4241}}`), "to be fitting" or "proper." Other related terms that convey aspects of divine grandeur, majesty, and glory include:
* δόξα (doxa, `{{G1391}}`): "glory," often referring to the manifest presence or effulgence of God. μεγαλοπρεπής serves as a descriptor of this divine glory.
* μεγαλειότης (megaleiotēs, `{{G3172}}`): "majesty" or "splendor," a noun form closely related to μέγας, often used to describe divine attributes or the works of God (e.g., [[Acts 19:27]], [[Luke 9:43]]).
* ἔνδοξος (endoxos, `{{G1741}}`): "glorious," "magnificent," or "held in honor."
* τιμή (timē, `{{G5092}}`): "honor" or "value," which is received alongside δόξα by Christ in [[2 Peter 1:17]].
These words collectively paint a picture of the ineffable and awe-inspiring nature of God's being and revelation, with μεγαλοπρεπής specifically emphasizing the *appropriateness* of such grandeur to the divine.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of μεγαλοπρεπής (megaloprepḗs, `{{G3169}}`) in [[2 Peter 1:17]] carries profound theological weight. By describing the glory from which God the Father spoke as "majestic" or "excellent," Peter underscores the ultimate source and unparalleled nature of the divine affirmation of Jesus Christ. This word emphasizes that the glory manifested at the Transfiguration was not merely impressive, but was inherently *fitting* for the divine essence of God and the divine Sonship of Jesus.
It speaks to the inherent dignity, worth, and transcendence of God. Everything about God, including His self-revelation, is characterized by μεγαλοπρεπής – it is appropriate to His infinite greatness. This term reinforces the truth and certainty of the apostolic witness concerning Christ's divine identity, grounding it in a divinely orchestrated, majestic display of glory. It serves to validate the prophetic word (as noted in [[2 Peter 1:19]]), demonstrating that the one of whom the prophets spoke is indeed the Son of God, affirmed by a glory that is uniquely and appropriately divine. The "Majestic Glory" is a powerful descriptor of God's own radiant presence, underscoring His holiness, power, and ultimate authority.
### Summary
μεγαλοπρεπής (megaloprepḗs, `{{G3169}}`) is a potent Greek adjective signifying "befitting greatness," "magnificent," or "majestic." Its single New Testament occurrence in [[2 Peter 1:17]] is highly significant, describing the "excellent glory" from which God the Father's voice affirmed Jesus Christ at the Transfiguration. This word emphasizes that the divine glory witnessed was not just immense, but inherently and appropriately grand, reflecting the very nature of God. Theologically, it highlights the unparalleled dignity and inherent majesty of God's self-revelation, affirming the divine status of Christ and the absolute truth of the apostolic witness to His glory. It speaks to a glory that is, by its very nature, fitting for the Creator of all things.
TRV