ἀναλογία (analogia)
analogia
proportion
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun analogia denotes a precise proportion or correspondence between things. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in Romans 12:6, where Paul instructs believers to exercise their gifts according to this measure. The word suggests that spiritual abilities are not random but operate within a defined scale or ratio relative to one another.
Its root components imply a thinking through or calculating of relationships, pointing toward a logical harmony rather than mere similarity. Translators often render it as "analogy" or "proportion," highlighting that each gift has its proper place and extent within the body of Christ. This usage emphasizes order and balance in how diverse talents are applied for the common good.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When we look at the diverse abilities within a community, it is easy to feel either inadequate or overly confident. The word analogia reminds us that spiritual gifts are not random accidents but operate with a precise proportion. This means every talent has a specific place and extent within the body of Christ, designed to work in harmony with others.
In Romans 12:6, Paul connects this measure directly to faith. He suggests that our gifts should align with the reality of what we trust God for. This is not about comparing ourselves to neighbors but understanding how our unique contributions fit into a larger, logical harmony. It invites us to use our abilities with humility and balance.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- proportion1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀναλογίαν1×
Key Verses
-
Romans 12:6
having gifts differing according to the grace that was given to us: if prophecy, let’s prophesy according to the proportion of our faith;
This verse establishes that spiritual gifts must be exercised in proportion to the faith one possesses, ensuring they serve the community rather than individual pride.