The Greek adverb perissotérōs, represented by G4056, means more superabundantly. It appears 13 times across 12 unique verses in the Bible. This word functions as an intensifier, elevating an action, emotion, or state to a higher degree. Its translations include "more abundant(-ly)," "more earnest," "exceedingly," "more frequent," and "the rather," always pointing to a measure that is beyond the ordinary.
In the biblical narrative, G4056 is frequently used by the Apostle Paul to express the extraordinary nature of his ministry and affections. He describes his sufferings for Christ with terms like "in labours G2873 more abundant" and "in prisons G5438 more frequent" 2 Corinthians 11:23. The word also conveys the depth of his love for the believers, stating he wrote to them so they "might know the love G26 which I have more abundantly unto you" 2 Corinthians 2:4. Beyond personal emotion, it signifies a required urgency in faith, as believers ought G1163 to give "more earnest heed" to the truth they have heard Hebrews 2:1.
Several related words help clarify the context in which G4056 is used:
- G26 agápē (love, i.e. affection or benevolence): This love is what Paul expresses more abundantly toward the Corinthians, showing the intensity of his pastoral care 2 Corinthians 2:4.
- G2873 kópos (toil... labour, + trouble, weariness): Paul's apostolic service was characterized by labours that were more abundant than others, highlighting the exhaustive effort involved in his ministry 2 Corinthians 11:23.
- G4337 proséchō (to hold the mind towards, i.e. pay attention to): Believers are called to give more earnest heed, or pay more intense attention, to the gospel message, a duty intensified by G4056 Hebrews 2:1.
- G5111 tolmáō (to venture... be courageous): Paul's bonds inspired other brethren to be "much more G4056 bold" in speaking the word of God, demonstrating that his suffering produced a greater courage in the church Philippians 1:14.
The theological weight of G4056 is significant, emphasizing that the Christian experience is one of extremes rather than mediocrity.
- Superabundant Love and Joy: The word is used to describe a love that is not merely present but overflowing, as seen in Paul's affection for the churches 2 Corinthians 12:15. It also describes a joy that is intensified by trying circumstances, as when Paul "exceedingly the more joyed" over Titus's comfort 2 Corinthians 7:13.
- The Heightened Cost of Service: G4056 quantifies the exceptional nature of apostolic suffering. Paul's labors and imprisonments were not just frequent but "more frequent" and "more abundant," establishing a standard of sacrifice that goes far beyond the norm 2 Corinthians 11:23.
- The Increased Urgency of Heeding Truth: The command to give "more earnest heed" in Hebrews 2:1 suggests that as God's revelation in Christ is greater than what came before, the responsibility to listen is likewise intensified.
- The Intensity of Human Response: The word is also used to describe the heightened opposition to Christ, as the crowd "cried out the more exceedingly" for His crucifixion, showing that human rebellion can also be superabundant Mark 15:14.
In summary, G4056 perissotérōs is more than a simple comparative term; it is a marker of extraordinary measure. It defines the intensity of apostolic love, the severity of apostolic suffering, and the critical importance of paying attention to God's word. It illustrates that in matters of faith, emotions and actions—whether of devotion or opposition—are often characterized by a superabundant quality that pushes beyond all normal limits.
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