apparently a primary word; small (in size, quantity, number or (figuratively) dignity):--least, less, little, small.
Transliteration:mikrós
Pronunciation:mik-rot'-er-os
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word μικρός (mikrós, `{{G3398}}`) is a fundamental adjective denoting "smallness" in various dimensions. Its primary semantic range encompasses literal aspects of size, quantity, and duration. For instance, it can describe something physically diminutive, a limited amount, or a brief period of time. Beyond these concrete applications, μικρός extends into figurative territory, indicating a lack of significance, importance, or dignity. In this sense, it can refer to someone of low status, little influence, or even a younger age. The word often appears in comparative contexts, setting something "small" against something "great" or "large," thereby highlighting a contrast in scale, value, or power. Its flexibility allows it to convey both a neutral observation of dimension and a loaded assessment of worth or standing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term μικρός appears frequently in the New Testament, illustrating its diverse applications. Literally, it describes physical stature, as seen in the account of Zacchaeus, who was "small in stature" (τῇ ἡλικίᾳ μικρὸς ἦν) and thus unable to see Jesus over the crowd [[Luke 19:3]]. It also refers to a limited quantity, such as when Philip laments that even "two hundred denarii worth of bread would not be enough for each of them to have a little" (οὐκ ἀρκεῖ αὐτοῖς ἵνα ἕκαστος βραχύ τι λάβῃ) [[John 6:7]]. In terms of time, it denotes a brief duration, as in the "little while" (ὀλίγον χρόνον) that Satan is released after the millennium [[Revelation 20:3]].
Figuratively, μικρός carries significant theological weight, particularly in its application to human status and spiritual standing. Jesus frequently uses it to denote humility or lowliness. Most famously, in the Olivet Discourse, Jesus identifies with "one of the least of these my brethren" (ἑνὶ τούτων τῶν ἀδελφῶν μου τῶν ἐλαχίστων, though here the superlative `{{G1646}}` is used, the concept is rooted in μικρός) [[Matthew 25:40]], [[Matthew 25:45]], emphasizing care for the marginalized. In the Kingdom parables, Jesus states that "he who is least (ὁ μικρότερος) in the kingdom of God is greater than he" (referring to John the Baptist) [[Luke 7:28]], and similarly in [[Matthew 11:11]]. This profound statement underscores the qualitative shift in spiritual reality brought about by the new covenant, where even the seemingly "least" participant in God's reign possesses a unique blessedness. The phrase "small and great" (μικροὺς καὶ μεγάλους) is a recurring merism in Revelation, signifying all humanity without distinction, encompassing every social stratum, in contexts of worship [[Revelation 11:18]], receiving the mark [[Revelation 13:16]], praise [[Revelation 19:5]], and judgment [[Revelation 20:12]]. This usage highlights God's universal scope of interaction with humanity.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of μικρός includes several related terms that illuminate its meaning through contrast or nuance. Its primary antonyms are μέγας (megas, `{{G3173}}`), meaning "great" or "large," and πολύς (polys, `{{G4183}}`), meaning "much" or "many." This antithesis is crucial for understanding biblical contrasts between worldly power and spiritual humility.
Closely related is ἐλάχιστος (elachistos, `{{G1646}}`), the superlative form of μικρός, meaning "least" or "smallest." While μικρός denotes "small," ἐλάχιστος emphasizes the absolute minimum or lowest degree, often used in contexts of humility or insignificance (e.g., "least of the apostles" [[1 Corinthians 15:9]]). Another related term is ὀλίγος (oligos, `{{G3641}}`), which means "few" or "little," often referring to quantity or duration, overlapping with some uses of μικρός but generally less concerned with physical size or dignity.
The concept of "smallness" in the New Testament is intimately tied to themes of humility, lowliness, and dependence on God. It stands in direct opposition to human pride and self-sufficiency. In the Kingdom of God, worldly metrics of greatness are inverted, and those who humble themselves and become "small" in the eyes of the world are often those whom God exalts.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of μικρός is profound, particularly in the context of the Kingdom of God and Christian discipleship. Jesus' teachings consistently elevate the "small" and the "least," challenging conventional human values. The declaration that "he who is least in the kingdom of God is greater" than John the Baptist ([[Luke 7:28]], [[Matthew 11:11]]) is a radical statement. It signifies that participation in the new covenant, even at its most humble level, confers a spiritual status superior to the greatest prophet of the old dispensation. This highlights the transformative power of Christ's advent and the new access to God's presence.
Furthermore, Jesus' identification with "the least of these" ([[Matthew 25:40]], [[Matthew 25:45]]) transforms the perception of the marginalized. To serve the "small" or the "insignificant" is to serve Christ Himself, imbuing acts of compassion with immense spiritual weight. This teaching calls believers to a radical empathy and service that transcends social hierarchies and worldly distinctions. The recurring phrase "small and great" in Revelation emphasizes the universality of God's judgment and salvation. No one, regardless of social standing, is outside the scope of divine accountability or the call to worship. This underscores God's impartial justice and comprehensive sovereignty. Ultimately, μικρός serves as a theological lens through which to understand God's preference for humility, His valuing of the humble, and the counter-cultural nature of His kingdom, where true greatness is often found in self-abasement and service.
### Summary
The Greek word μικρός (mikrós, `{{G3398}}`) primarily denotes "small" in terms of physical size, quantity, or duration. However, its profound biblical significance emerges in its figurative applications, where it describes lack of dignity, importance, or status. In the New Testament, μικρός is crucial for understanding the inverted values of the Kingdom of God. Jesus frequently uses it to highlight the spiritual superiority of those who are humble or "least" in the world's eyes, contrasting them with worldly notions of greatness. The identification of Christ with "the least of these" mandates compassionate service to the marginalized. Moreover, the comprehensive phrase "small and great" in Revelation underscores the universal scope of God's judgment and redemptive plan for all humanity. Thus, μικρός is not merely a descriptive adjective but a powerful theological term that illuminates God's preference for humility, His impartial justice, and the counter-cultural values of His divine reign.
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