μικρός (mikros)
mikros
small
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 43 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective mikros simply means small or little, covering physical size, quantity, and even social rank. In the Gospels, it often describes people who are overlooked by society, such as the "little ones" in Matthew 18:6 or the woman of small stature in Luke 19:3. This usage highlights how Jesus elevates those whom the world considers insignificant.
The word extends beyond physical dimensions to include time and influence. It describes brief periods, as when Jesus says he will be with his disciples for "a little while" in John 7:33, or small amounts of faith like a mustard seed in Matthew 13:32. In Revelation, it distinguishes between the great powers of the earth and the humble believers who remain faithful.
Translators typically render mikros as "little," "small," or "least" depending on context. The sources note that while it can refer to age or stature, its most striking theological use is metaphorical, pointing to those with low rank or influence. This consistent application across the New Testament reinforces a central theme: God’s attention often rests on the small and the humble.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word mikros describes what is small in size, quantity, or status. In the Gospels, Jesus frequently uses this term to highlight those whom society overlooks. He calls them "little ones" and warns that harming their faith brings severe consequences. This language reminds us that God values humility and protects the vulnerable.
Jesus also uses mikros to describe the mustard seed, which is tiny but grows into something large. This image shows how small acts of faith or kindness can have lasting effects. Even brief moments with Him are significant, as seen when He speaks of being with His disciples for "a little while." These small things matter deeply to God.
When you feel insignificant or overlooked, remember that Jesus pays close attention to the least among us. Your small efforts and humble heart are seen and valued by your Father. This truth offers comfort in seasons when you feel unnoticed or undervalued.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 43 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- small6×
- a little6×
- little ones5×
- little5×
- a little while3×
- a little [while]3×
- A little [while]3×
- the least2×
- least2×
- A little2×
- to small1×
- smallest1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- μικρὸν19×
- μικρῶν7×
- μικρότερος3×
- μικροῦ3×
- μικρότερον2×
- μικρόν2×
- μικρὰ2×
- μικροὺς2×
- μικρῷ1×
- μικρόν;1×
- μικρὸς1×
- μικρὰν1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 18:6
but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to stumble, it would be better for him if a huge millstone were hung around his neck and that he were sunk in the depths of the sea.
This verse uses mikros to identify believers as "little ones," establishing a serious warning against causing them spiritual harm.
-
Matthew 13:32
which indeed is smaller than all seeds. But when it is grown, it is greater than the herbs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in its branches.”
Here mikros describes the mustard seed's initial smallness, contrasting it with the large tree that eventually provides shelter.
-
Luke 19:3
He was trying to see who Jesus was, and couldn’t because of the crowd, because he was short.
The word describes Zacchaeus's physical stature, which necessitated climbing a tree to see Jesus despite the crowd.
-
John 7:33
Then Jesus said, “I will be with you a little while longer, then I go to him who sent me.
Jesus uses mikros to indicate a short remaining time with His disciples before His departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Greek word mikros mean?
Who are the "little ones" in Matthew 18?
How is mikros different from megas?
Why does Jesus mention "a little while"?
Every Occurrence (43 verses across 11 books)
Matthew 8 verses
Whoever gives one of these little ones just a cup of cold water to drink in the name of a disciple, most certainly I…
Matthew 11:11Most certainly I tell you, among those who are born of women there has not arisen anyone greater than John the…
Matthew 13:32which indeed is smaller than all seeds. But when it is grown, it is greater than the herbs and becomes a tree, so that…
Matthew 18:6but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to stumble, it would be better for him if a huge…
Matthew 18:10See that you don’t despise one of these little ones, for I tell you that in heaven their angels always see the face of…
Matthew 18:14Even so it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.
Matthew 26:39He went forward a little, fell on his face, and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass away…
Matthew 26:73After a little while those who stood by came and said to Peter, “Surely you are also one of them, for your speech makes…