### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb μηκύνω (mēkýnō, `{{G3373}}`) is derived from the noun μῆκος (mēkos, `{{G3372}}`), which signifies "length" or "duration." Consequently, the core meaning of μηκύνω is "to lengthen" or "to extend." When used in the middle voice, as it is in its sole New Testament occurrence, it conveys the sense of causing oneself to lengthen, or more idiomatically, "to grow up" or "to become enlarged." This implies a process of development or maturation over time, emphasizing the *extension* in duration or dimension rather than merely an increase in quantity. It distinguishes itself from more general terms for growth like αὐξάνω (auxanō, `{{G837}}`), which focuses broadly on increase, by specifically highlighting the aspect of becoming longer or more enduring.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term μηκύνω (mēkýnō, `{{G3373}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the Gospel of Luke concerning John the Baptist:
> "And the child grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the wilderness until the day of his public appearance to Israel." [[Luke 1:80]]
In this context, "grew" translates μηκύνω (mēkýnō), specifically referring to John's physical and spiritual development from infancy. The use of μηκύνω here emphasizes a prolonged process of maturation. John did not merely increase in size or strength overnight; rather, his growth was an unfolding, a lengthening of his being over many years spent in the wilderness. This period of growth and strengthening "in spirit" was preparatory, leading up to the moment of his public manifestation as the forerunner of the Messiah. The wilderness setting underscores a period of insulation and divine cultivation, where his spiritual fortitude was being stretched and extended.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct lexical relation to μηκύνω (mēkýnō, `{{G3373}}`) is its root noun, μῆκος (mēkos, `{{G3372}}`), which denotes "length" or "extent." This connection highlights the aspect of spatial or temporal extension inherent in the verb.
Other Greek words that convey aspects of "growth" or "increase" but with different nuances include:
* αὐξάνω (auxanō, `{{G837}}`): A very common word for general increase, whether in size, number, or spiritual maturity (e.g., [[Ephesians 4:15]]). It signifies augmentation or flourishing.
* πληθύνω (plēthynō, `{{G4129}}`): To multiply or increase in number, often used of populations or blessings (e.g., [[Acts 6:7]]).
* προκόπτω (prokoptō, `{{G4298}}`): To advance, make progress, or cut one's way forward (e.g., [[Luke 2:52]] regarding Jesus's growth in wisdom).
While these terms describe various forms of development, μηκύνω (mēkýnō, `{{G3373}}`) uniquely emphasizes the *duration* and *progressive unfolding* of growth, particularly in the context of a person's life and preparation for a divinely appointed role. It suggests not just getting bigger, but becoming *more* over time, in terms of capacity and readiness.
### Theological Significance
Despite its singular appearance, the use of μηκύνω (mēkýnō, `{{G3373}}`) in [[Luke 1:80]] carries profound theological weight. It underscores the divine orchestration of John the Baptist's life and preparation. John's growth was not accidental or merely biological; it was a purposeful "lengthening" and strengthening "in spirit" under God's hand. This implies:
1. **Divine Providence in Development:** God actively oversees and enables the maturation of His servants. John's growth in the wilderness was a period of divine shaping, preparing him for the immense task of being the forerunner of the Messiah.
2. **The Importance of Process:** The term highlights that significant spiritual and physical development is often a process that unfolds over an extended period. God works through time, patiently cultivating individuals for His purposes. This challenges any notion of instant readiness for profound ministry.
3. **Holistic Maturation:** The phrase "grew and became strong in spirit" suggests a comprehensive development—physical, mental, and spiritual. The "lengthening" of μηκύνω (mēkýnō, `{{G3373}}`) encompasses the full scope of human flourishing under God's guidance.
4. **Preparation for Calling:** John's prolonged growth in the wilderness was directly linked to his ultimate public appearance and prophetic ministry. It teaches that God equips those He calls through a period of formation, often hidden from public view, before their appointed time.
### Summary
The Greek verb μηκύνω (mēkýnō, `{{G3373}}`), derived from μῆκος (mēkos, `{{G3372}}`) meaning "length," fundamentally signifies "to lengthen" or, in its New Testament usage, "to grow up" or "to become enlarged." Its sole occurrence in [[Luke 1:80]] describes the growth of John the Baptist, emphasizing a protracted process of physical and spiritual maturation in the wilderness. This unique term highlights the *duration* and *progressive unfolding* of development, distinct from general terms for increase. Theologically, it illuminates God's sovereign hand in shaping and preparing His servants over time, underscoring the importance of a holistic and often lengthy process of maturation for fulfilling divine callings.
TRV