from μέγας; greatness, i.e. (figuratively) divinity (often God himself):--majesty.
Transliteration:megalōsýnē
Pronunciation:meg-al-o-soo'-nay
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun μεγαλωσύνη (megalōsýnē, `{{G3172}}`) is derived from the adjective μέγας (megas, `{{G3173}}`), meaning "great." As such, μεγαλωσύνη fundamentally denotes the quality or state of being great. In its New Testament usage, it moves beyond mere physical size or worldly prominence, entering the theological realm to describe divine attributes. Its semantic range primarily encompasses "greatness," "majesty," "magnificence," and "supreme power." Crucially, it often functions as a metonymy for God Himself, representing His inherent divinity, incomparable power, and exalted status. It speaks to the intrinsic, awe-inspiring nature of the Almighty, a greatness that evokes reverence and worship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term μεγαλωσύνη (megalōsýnē, `{{G3172}}`) appears sparingly in the New Testament, but each occurrence carries profound theological weight, exclusively referring to God or Christ's divine status:
* **[[Jude 1:25]]**: "to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen."
Here, μεγαλωσύνη is listed among the eternal attributes ascribed to God. It stands alongside "glory" (δόξα, `{{G1391}}`), "dominion" (κράτος, `{{G2904}}`), and "authority" (ἐξουσία, `{{G1849}}`), affirming God's supreme and intrinsic greatness that exists from eternity past through eternity future. This verse serves as a doxology, emphasizing the divine worthiness of all praise.
* **[[Hebrews 1:3]]**: "He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high."
In this foundational christological passage, μεγαλωσύνη is used metonymically for God the Father. The phrase "the Majesty on high" (τῆς μεγαλωσύνης ἐν ὑψηλοῖς) refers directly to God in His exalted, supreme position. The Son, Jesus Christ, is depicted as sitting at the Father's right hand, a place of supreme honor, authority, and shared divine rule, underscoring His co-equality and divine nature.
* **[[Hebrews 8:1]]**: "Now the main point in what we are saying is this: we have such a high priest, one who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven."
Similar to [[Hebrews 1:3]], μεγαλωσύνη again serves as a metonym for God. "The Majesty in heaven" (τῆς μεγαλωσύνης ἐν τοῖς οὐρανοῖς) reinforces the idea of God's transcendent and sovereign rule, particularly from His heavenly throne. The High Priest, Jesus, is seated there, signifying the ultimate efficacy and divine approval of His sacrifice and ongoing intercessory ministry. His position at the right hand of the "Majesty" validates His supreme priesthood.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of μεγαλωσύνη is enriched by its relationship to several other Greek terms and theological concepts:
* **μέγας (megas, `{{G3173}}`)**: The root adjective, meaning "great," from which μεγαλωσύνη is derived. μεγαλωσύνη is the abstract noun denoting the quality of being μέγας.
* **μεγαλειότης (megaleiotēs, `{{G3168}}`)**: A closely related noun, often translated as "magnificence," "splendor," or "majesty." While both terms convey greatness, μεγαλειότης often emphasizes the *manifestation* or visible splendor of greatness (e.g., [[Luke 9:43]], [[2 Peter 1:16]]), whereas μεγαλωσύνη tends to highlight the inherent *state* or intrinsic attribute of divine greatness and authority.
* **δόξα (doxa, `{{G1391}}`)**: "Glory." Frequently paired with μεγαλωσύνη (e.g., [[Jude 1:25]]), glory refers to the outward manifestation or radiance of God's character and attributes. Majesty is the inherent greatness that produces such glory.
* **δύναμις (dynamis, `{{G1411}}`)**: "Power." God's majesty is inextricably linked to His omnipotence and ability to act.
* **ἐξουσία (exousia, `{{G1849}}`)**: "Authority" or "dominion." Majesty inherently implies supreme rule and rightful authority, as seen in [[Jude 1:25]].
* **κράτος (kratos, `{{G2904}}`)**: "Dominion" or "might." Another term emphasizing God's sovereign rule and power, often used in doxologies.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of μεγαλωσύνη is profound, centering on the nature and attributes of God:
* **Divine Transcendence and Sovereignty**: The term underscores God's absolute transcendence, His exalted position above all creation. It speaks to His supreme sovereignty, emphasizing that He is the ultimate ruler and authority in the universe. The phrases "Majesty on high" and "Majesty in heaven" powerfully convey this.
* **Inherent Divine Attribute**: μεγαλωσύνη is not an acquired status but an essential, intrinsic attribute of God's being. It is His very essence to be supremely great, majestic, and powerful. This inherent greatness is the foundation for all His actions and decrees.
* **Christological Importance**: In the book of Hebrews, the use of μεγαλωσύνη is crucial for understanding the divine status of Jesus Christ. His seating at the right hand of the "Majesty" signifies His co-equality with God the Father, His shared divine authority, and His supreme position as both High Priest and Lord. This placement affirms His full deity and His ultimate triumph.
* **Foundation for Worship and Awe**: The recognition of God's μεγαλωσύνη naturally evokes profound awe, reverence, and worship in the believer. It highlights His unparalleled worthiness of all praise, honor, and obedience. To acknowledge God's majesty is to humble oneself before His infinite greatness.
* **Security in Salvation**: In [[Jude 1:25]], μεγαλωσύνη is attributed to "the only God, our Savior." This linkage connects God's supreme greatness directly to His redemptive work, assuring believers that their salvation is secured by the omnipotent and majestic God, who is able to keep them from stumbling.
### Summary
μεγαλωσύνη (megalōsýnē, `{{G3172}}`) is a powerful Greek term that encapsulates the intrinsic, awe-inspiring greatness, majesty, and supreme authority of God. Appearing in only three New Testament passages ([[Jude 1:25]], [[Hebrews 1:3]], [[Hebrews 8:1]]), it consistently points to God's transcendent nature, His sovereign rule, and His incomparable power. In Hebrews, its metonymic use for God the Father highlights the co-equal divine status and shared authority of Jesus Christ, who sits at the right hand of this "Majesty." The word calls believers to profound reverence and worship, recognizing the infinite worthiness of the God who is supremely great and majestic.
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