superlative of μέγας; greatest or very great:--exceeding great.
Transliteration:mégistos
Pronunciation:meg'-is-tos
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word μέγιστος (mégistos, `{{G3176}}`) is the superlative form of μέγας (megas, `{{G3173}}`), which means "great," "large," or "important." As a superlative, μέγιστος inherently conveys the highest possible degree of the quality expressed by μέγας. Therefore, its core meaning is "greatest," "largest," "most important," or "exceedingly great." It denotes a supreme level of magnitude, eminence, or intensity, applicable to various contexts such as physical size, numerical quantity, power, honor, or significance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
μέγιστος (mégistos, `{{G3176}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the epistle of 2 Peter:
* **[[2 Peter 1:4]]**: "whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust."
In this singular occurrence, μέγιστος modifies "promises" (ἐπαγγελίας). The phrase "exceeding great and precious promises" (τὰ μέγιστα ἡμῖν καὶ τίμια ἐπαγγελίας) serves to underscore the unparalleled magnitude and immense value of the divine assurances bestowed upon believers. The context of [[2 Peter 1:3-4]] emphasizes that God's divine power has granted believers everything necessary for life and godliness through the knowledge of Jesus Christ. The promises are not merely significant; they are of the *highest* possible greatness, serving as the means by which believers can become "partakers of the divine nature" and escape the corruption of the world. The superlative form here highlights the absolute sufficiency, supreme worth, and transformative power of these divine pledges.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **μέγας (megas, `{{G3173}}`):** This is the root word from which μέγιστος is derived. Understanding μέγας (meaning "great") is fundamental to appreciating the intensified meaning of its superlative form. μέγας is used extensively throughout the New Testament to describe various forms of greatness, whether in power, size, sound, or importance (e.g., "great voice," "great city," "great tribulation"). μέγιστος elevates this concept of greatness to its ultimate degree.
* **πολύς (polys, `{{G4183}}`):** Meaning "much" or "many," this word often relates to quantity. While μέγιστος can sometimes imply great quantity, its primary emphasis is on magnitude, importance, or preeminence, distinguishing it from mere numerical abundance.
* **ὑπερβολή (hyperbole, `{{G5236}}`):** Meaning "excess, superiority, preeminence." This term also conveys a sense of exceeding measure or something "beyond measure," often used to describe an extraordinary degree. While not a direct synonym, it shares the semantic field of expressing an extreme or surpassing quality.
* **Divine Promises (ἐπαγγελία, epangelia, `{{G1860}}`):** The noun explicitly modified by μέγιστος in [[2 Peter 1:4]]. The unparalleled greatness of these promises is intrinsically linked to their divine origin and their profound redemptive and sanctifying effects on the believer.
### Theological Significance
The singular yet potent use of μέγιστος in [[2 Peter 1:4]] carries profound theological weight. It emphasizes the unparalleled nature of God's promises to humanity. These are not merely significant promises; they are the *greatest* promises, underscoring their supreme value, inviolable reliability, and transformative efficacy. The "exceeding great and precious promises" are presented as the very conduit through which believers are enabled to become "partakers of the divine nature" (θείας κοινωνοὶ φύσεως). This concept signifies a profound spiritual transformation, a sharing in the very character, life, and moral attributes of God, which is a doctrine of immense theological import.
The superlative form of μέγιστος highlights the absolute sufficiency and completeness of God's provision for salvation, sanctification, and eternal life. There is nothing lacking in these promises; they are fully adequate to accomplish their divinely intended purpose. This word thus serves to magnify God's boundless generosity, unfailing faithfulness, and the immeasurable worth of His covenantal assurances to His people. The promises are not merely good; they are supremely good, reflecting the perfect and benevolent character of the God who bestows them.
### Summary
μέγιστος (mégistos, `{{G3176}}`) is the superlative form of μέγας (megas, `{{G3173}}`), signifying "greatest" or "exceedingly great." Its sole New Testament appearance in [[2 Peter 1:4]] is highly impactful, describing the "exceeding great and precious promises" given to believers. This usage powerfully emphasizes the supreme magnitude, unparalleled value, and absolute sufficiency of God's divine provisions, which serve as the means for believers to partake in the divine nature and escape worldly corruption. The word underscores the boundless generosity and faithfulness of God, highlighting that His promises are of the highest possible degree, fully capable of accomplishing His redemptive and sanctifying purposes in the lives of His people.
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