### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pámpolys**, represented by `{{G3827}}`, is used to describe something as **very great** or immense. It appears only **1 time** in the Bible, in a single verse, highlighting its specific and rare usage. The term is a compound word, defined as "full many, i.e. immense".
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{G3827}}` is used to establish the context of a significant event. In [[Mark 8:1]], the word describes the crowd gathered around Jesus as **"very great"**. This immense size is immediately paired with the fact that the multitude had "nothing to eat," emphasizing the scale of the need. Jesus's response to seeing this **very great** multitude is to call his disciples to him.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help illuminate the scene:
* `{{G3793}}` **óchlos**: This is the Greek word for **multitude** or throng. In [[Mark 8:1]], it is the noun that **pámpolys** directly modifies, indicating that the crowd was not just large, but immense.
* `{{G4341}}` **proskaléomai**: This word means to **call** toward oneself or summon. It describes the action Jesus takes immediately after observing the "very great" multitude, as he summons his disciples.
* `{{G3101}}` **mathētḗs**: This term for **disciple** refers to a learner or pupil. They are the ones Jesus called to address the situation presented by the immense crowd.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G3827}}` is tied directly to its singular use in scripture.
* **Magnitude of Need:** The word's function is to underscore the overwhelming scale of the situation. By describing the multitude as **very great**, the text emphasizes the immense human need that Jesus is about to address [[Mark 8:1]].
* **Catalyst for Action:** The presence of a **"very great"** multitude with no food serves as the direct trigger for Jesus's action. It is this specific condition that prompts him to **call** `{{G4341}}` his **disciples** `{{G3101}}`.
* **Descriptive Intent:** The rarity of **pámpolys** suggests its use is intentional to convey an exceptional and immense gathering, setting a specific and dramatic tone for the narrative that follows.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3827}}` **pámpolys** is a highly specific term for **"very great"** that, while appearing only once, plays a crucial role in its context. Its use in [[Mark 8:1]] powerfully illustrates the immense scale of a crowd and their corresponding need. The word serves to frame the entire scene, establishing the challenge that prompts Jesus to summon his disciples and act.
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