### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **meîzon**, represented by `{{G3185}}`, functions adverbially to mean **in greater degree** or **the more**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, signifying a specific moment of intensified action in response to opposition.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its single biblical appearance, `{{G3185}}` describes an escalation of persistence. The context is found in [[Matthew 20:31]], where two blind men were crying out to Jesus. The multitude `{{G3793}}` rebuked them, demanding they hold their peace. Instead of being silenced, their desperation increased, and they "cried **the more**, saying, Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou Son of David."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the surrounding text illuminate the context of this intensified plea:
* `{{G2008}}` **epitimáō** (rebuke): This word, meaning to **censure or admonish**, describes the action of the multitude attempting to silence the blind men's cries for help [[Matthew 20:31]].
* `{{G4623}}` **siōpáō** (hold their peace): This was the multitude's command, for the men **to be dumb** or silent. This stands in direct contrast to their escalating response [[Matthew 20:31]].
* `{{G2896}}` **krázō** (cried): In defiance of the rebuke, the men did not just speak but **screamed** or **called aloud**. This action is what was amplified "the more" by `{{G3185}}` [[Matthew 20:31]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G3185}}` in this context highlights several important themes:
* **Persistence in Faith:** The word emphasizes that a genuine appeal for the Lord's help is not easily deterred by human opposition. The men's faith compelled them to cry out even louder when discouraged by others [[Matthew 20:31]].
* **The Nature of Earnest Prayer:** The adverbial function of **the more** modifies the act of crying out, showing that their prayer was not a passive request but an escalating, fervent appeal to the one they identified as **Lord** `{{G2962}}`.
* **Overcoming Obstacles:** The scene illustrates a spiritual dynamic where an obstacle, such as the rebuking crowd, serves to intensify rather than extinguish a desperate plea for divine mercy [[Matthew 20:31]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3185}}` **meîzon** is a rare adverb that, in its single use, conveys a powerful sense of intensification. It is the pivotal word in [[Matthew 20:31]] that transforms a crowd's rebuke into a catalyst for a more fervent and desperate cry for mercy. It illustrates how faith, when faced with discouragement, can respond with even greater persistence in its appeal to the **Lord**.
TRV