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μακροχρόνιος (makrochronios)

makrochronios

long-lived

G3118 · Greek · New Testament · 1 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The adjective makrochronios describes something or someone that is long-lived or of long duration. It combines words for "long" and "time," pointing to an extended span of existence rather than a specific age. In the New Testament, this term appears only once, in Ephesians 6:3.

Paul uses it when quoting the commandment to honor parents, promising that doing so leads to well-being and long life on earth. The phrase echoes the Old Testament background found in the Septuagint, where similar language connects obedience with a prolonged life. Here, the word emphasizes the tangible benefit of living out this instruction over many years.

Unlike other Greek words for life that might focus on quality or spiritual vitality, makrochronios highlights the length of time itself. It grounds the promise in the physical reality of a long lifespan, offering a concrete hope for those who follow this ethical teaching.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word makrochronios points to a life that endures over many years. In Ephesians 6:3, Paul connects this longevity with honoring parents. This is not just about living longer for the sake of time itself. It is about a life where well-being accompanies each passing year.

When we care for those who raised us, we step into a promise that touches our daily reality. The text suggests that respect and kindness create an environment where life can flourish. This is a practical hope for families today, reminding us that our actions have lasting effects on our own future.

May your home be a place of mutual respect and care. Let this simple command guide your relationships, bringing peace and stability to your days.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • long-lived1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • μακροχρόνιος1×

Key Verses

  • Ephesians 6:3
    “that it may be well with you, and you may live long on the earth.”

    This is the only New Testament occurrence, linking the promise of long life directly to the command to honor one's parents.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does makrochronios mean in the Bible?

It is a Greek adjective meaning long-lived or of long duration. It appears only once in Ephesians 6:3, where it describes the physical lifespan promised to those who honor their parents.

Is this promise about spiritual life or physical life?

In this specific context, it refers to living long on the earth. While Christians also believe in eternal life, this verse highlights the tangible benefit of a prolonged earthly existence as part of God's blessing for obedience.

Why is this word significant?

Its rarity makes it notable. It grounds the fifth commandment in concrete reality, showing that honoring family ties into our physical well-being and longevity, not just spiritual status.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)