The Greek word pollaplasíōn, represented by G4179, conveys the meaning of manifold, or very much more. It is a rare term, appearing only 1 time in the entire Bible. The word's components suggest a great multiplication, promising a return that is significantly greater in quantity.
The single use of G4179 occurs in a promise of great blessing for those who make sacrifices. The verse states that such a person shall receive G618 manifold more G4179 in G1722 this present time G2540. This immediate, multiplied return is presented alongside the ultimate promise of everlasting G166 life G2222 in G1722 the world G165 to come G2064, establishing a two-part reward Luke 18:30.
Several related words help frame the context of this multiplied blessing:
- G618 apolambánō (to receive): This verb specifies the action of obtaining the promised reward. It is used in contexts of receiving a full reward 2 John 1:8 or the reward of the inheritance Colossians 3:24.
- G2540 kairós (an occasion, i.e. set or proper time): This word defines the timing of the "manifold more" blessing as something for the "present time" Luke 18:30. It often refers to a "due season" for reaping what has been sown Galatians 6:9.
- G165 aiṓn (an age; by extension, the world): This term helps distinguish the two realms of blessing. The "manifold more" is for this present age, contrasted with the reward in the "world to come" Luke 18:30. It can refer to "this world" Romans 12:2 or a promise extending to the "end of the world" Matthew 28:20.
- G166 aiṓnios (perpetual): Used to describe the life G2222 in the age to come, this term highlights the eternal nature of the future reward, in contrast to the quantitative promise of "manifold more" now. This is seen in promises of everlasting life John 3:16 and eternal glory 1 Peter 5:10.
The singular appearance of G4179 carries significant theological weight regarding divine reward:
- The Duality of Reward: The passage where G4179 is found establishes a clear distinction between present and future blessings. Believers are promised a multiplied return, "manifold more," in this current time G2540, as well as everlasting G166 life G2222 in the world G165 to come Luke 18:30.
- Immediacy of Blessing: This term underscores that God's recompense is not solely a future hope. The promise of receiving "manifold more" confirms that sacrificial living can yield abundant returns in the present life. This is a blessing that is received G618 in this age.
- Quantitative vs. Qualitative Reward: There is a contrast between the nature of the two rewards. The present blessing is quantitative ("manifold more"), while the future reward is qualitative and unending, described as everlasting G166 life G2222.
In summary, pollaplasíōn G4179, though appearing just once, provides a powerful insight into the nature of divine blessing. It is not merely a promise for the future, but a guarantee of a multiplied return in the present time G2540. The term distinguishes between the abundant, quantitative blessings received now and the unending, qualitative reward of everlasting G166 life G2222 to come. It powerfully illustrates that faithfulness is met with overwhelming generosity in both this age and the next.
TRV