The Greek word sphódra, represented by G4970, is an adverb used to mean vehemently or in a high degree. It appears 11 times across 11 unique verses in the Bible. Its primary function is to intensify the meaning of the word it modifies, often translated as exceeding(-ly), greatly, sore, or very.
In the biblical narrative, G4970 is used to amplify a wide range of emotions and circumstances. It describes the intense fear of the disciples at the transfiguration Matthew 17:6 and the centurion at the crucifixion Matthew 27:54. Conversely, it conveys the immense joy of the wise men upon seeing the star Matthew 2:10. The word also expresses deep sorrow, as when the disciples learned of Jesus' impending death Matthew 17:23 and betrayal Matthew 26:22. Beyond emotion, it is used to describe the great size of the stone at the tomb Mark 16:4 and the rapid growth of the early church in Jerusalem Acts 6:7.
Several related words are given greater force when used in conjunction with G4970:
- G5399 phobéō (to frighten, i.e. (passively) to be alarmed; by analogy, to be in awe of, i.e. revere): This verb for fear is intensified by G4970 to describe the overwhelming reaction of those witnessing divine power, as when the centurion and others feared greatly Matthew 27:54.
- G3076 lypéō (to distress; reflexively or passively, to be sad): This word for being sad or grieved is frequently paired with G4970 to express a profound sorrow, such as when the disciples were exceeding sorry upon hearing Jesus' prophecy of his death Matthew 17:23.
- G3173 mégas (big (literally or figuratively, in a very wide application)): Often translated as 'great,' this adjective is sometimes used alongside G4970 to create a sense of overwhelming magnitude, such as the "exceeding great" plague of hail in Revelation Revelation 16:21.
The theological weight of G4970 comes from its role as an amplifier for significant events and reactions. It underscores key truths by describing their impact.
- Reaction to Divine Revelation: The use of "greatly" or "sore" with fear demonstrates a proper, awe-filled response to the divine. The centurion's intense fear led directly to his confession that Jesus was the Son of God Matthew 27:54.
- The Gravity of Redemptive Events: The "exceeding" sorrow of the disciples regarding Jesus' death and betrayal highlights the profound weight of these moments. It shows their dawning awareness of the seriousness of the events unfolding Matthew 26:22.
- The Magnitude of God's Work: The word emphasizes the scale of God's actions, both in salvation and judgment. The disciples "greatly" multiplying shows the irresistible advance of the gospel Acts 6:7, while the "exceeding great" plague demonstrates the severity of divine judgment Revelation 16:21.
In summary, G4970 functions as a crucial adverb that provides scale and emotional depth to the biblical text. While not a theological term on its own, its application to emotions like joy, sorrow, and fear in response to divine events gives these moments their proper weight. It transforms simple statements into profound declarations, highlighting the overwhelming nature of God's power, the gravity of sin, and the immense joy of salvation.
TRV