continued comparative of μείζων; still larger (figuratively):--greater.
Transliteration:meizóteros
Pronunciation:mide-zot'-er-os
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word μειζότερος (meizóteros, `{{G3186}}`) is a unique and intensified comparative form. It is derived from μέγας (megas, `{{G3173}}`), meaning "great," through its regular comparative form μείζων (meizōn, also `{{G3173}}` in some lexicons, but specifically the comparative form of μέγας), meaning "greater." The addition of the -τερος suffix to an already comparative form (μείζων) creates a double comparative, signifying an even higher degree of comparison. Thus, μειζότερος does not simply mean "greater," but conveys the sense of "still greater," "even greater," or "much greater." As indicated by its base definition, its usage is primarily figurative, referring not to physical size but to a heightened degree of importance, significance, authority, or spiritual magnitude. This intensified comparative emphasizes a profound superiority or an escalation in the nature of what is being described.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term μειζότερος (meizóteros, `{{G3186}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in [[John 1:50]]. The specific form used there is μειζότερα (meizótera), the neuter plural accusative.
In this pivotal passage, Jesus is conversing with Nathanael. Nathanael expresses awe and belief after Jesus reveals His supernatural knowledge of Nathanael's presence under the fig tree. Jesus responds, "Because I said to you, 'I saw you under the fig tree,' do you believe? You will see μειζότερα than these things."
The "these things" refer to Jesus' initial display of omniscience, which, while impressive, is presented as a mere prelude. The "still greater things" (μειζότερα) that Jesus promises Nathanael and the other disciples are immediately clarified in the subsequent verse, [[John 1:51]]: "Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man." This alludes to Jacob's ladder ([[Genesis 28:12]]) and profoundly identifies Jesus as the true nexus between heaven and earth, the one through whom divine revelation, power, and communication flow. The μειζότερα are not just more impressive miracles, but deeper, more profound manifestations of Jesus' divine identity, His unique relationship with the Father, and His role as the Messiah and Son of Man—the ultimate mediator of God's presence and kingdom.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary lexical roots and related concepts for μειζότερος (meizóteros, `{{G3186}}`) include:
* μέγας (megas, `{{G3173}}`): The root adjective meaning "great," "large," or "mighty." This forms the basis for the comparative.
* μείζων (meizōn, also `{{G3173}}`): The regular comparative form of μέγας, meaning "greater" or "larger." μειζότερος intensifies this meaning.
* Concepts of superiority: The word inherently conveys a sense of hierarchy and preeminence, indicating something that surpasses another in quality, importance, or spiritual power.
* Divine revelation: In its sole biblical occurrence, μειζότερος points to the unfolding of God's truth and the deeper understanding of Christ's identity and mission.
* The Son of Man: The "greater things" promised in [[John 1:50]] are directly tied to Jesus' identity as the Son of Man, a title emphasizing His humanity and divine authority, particularly in eschatological contexts.
### Theological Significance
Despite its singular occurrence, the theological significance of μειζότερος (meizóteros, `{{G3186}}`) is profound. It underscores several critical themes:
1. **Progressive Revelation:** The term highlights the escalating nature of God's self-disclosure, particularly concerning the person and work of Jesus Christ. The initial signs and wonders performed by Jesus, while miraculous, are presented as mere foretastes of the "still greater" spiritual realities and divine glories that He would reveal. This implies that faith is a journey of ever-deepening understanding and experience of Christ.
2. **The Unparalleled Supremacy of Christ:** The "greater things" promised are ultimately manifestations of Jesus' unique status as the Son of Man, the one who bridges heaven and earth. This signifies His ultimate authority, divine nature, and unparalleled role in God's redemptive plan. The μειζότερα are not just more numerous or spectacular events, but a qualitative leap in the revelation of Christ's glory and saving power.
3. **The Nature of True Belief:** Jesus' statement to Nathanael suggests that belief based on initial evidence is good, but true, mature faith apprehends the deeper, "still greater" truths of Christ's identity and mission. It invites disciples to look beyond the immediate and anticipate the profound spiritual realities revealed through Jesus' life, death, resurrection, and ongoing ministry.
4. **The Eschatological Hope:** The vision of "heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man" points to the inauguration of God's kingdom through Christ. The μειζότερα encompass the full scope of Jesus' redemptive work, culminating in the establishment of God's reign and the ultimate reconciliation of heaven and earth through Him.
### Summary
μειζότερος (meizóteros, `{{G3186}}`) is a rare but potent Greek double comparative, meaning "still greater" or "even greater." Its sole New Testament appearance in [[John 1:50]] is highly significant. In this context, Jesus promises Nathanael that he will witness "still greater things" than the initial display of Jesus' supernatural knowledge. These "greater things" refer to the profound spiritual realities of Jesus' divine identity as the Son of Man, the ultimate mediator between heaven and earth, and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through Him. The word thus emphasizes the progressive nature of divine revelation, the unparalleled supremacy of Christ, and the call to a deeper, more comprehensive faith that apprehends the ultimate glory and power of God manifested in Jesus.
TRV