πηλίκος (pēlikos)
pēlikos
how great
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective pēlikos asks "how great" or "how large," focusing on magnitude rather than simple quantity. While it can refer to physical size, in Scripture it often points to something distinguished or impressive in nature. It appears only twice in the New Testament, each time highlighting a striking feature of its subject.
In Galatians 6:11, Paul uses it to describe the large letters he writes with his own hand. This detail emphasizes the personal effort and seriousness behind his final appeal to the Galatian believers. The word draws attention to the physical presence of the text itself.
Hebrews 7:4 employs pēlikos to express admiration for the greatness of Abraham’s seed, referring to the tithes offered by the patriarch. Here, the term underscores the significance and honor associated with that act. The sources note its use in the Septuagint as well, where it similarly conveys wonder at size or importance.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word pēlikos asks us to pay attention to magnitude. It is not about counting items but noticing size or weight. In Galatians 6:11, Paul uses it to describe his large handwriting. This was not a stylistic choice but a sign of personal care and urgency. He wanted the truth to be visible and hard to miss.
Hebrews 7:4 applies this same sense of greatness to Abraham’s offering. The text highlights how significant the act was, drawing our eyes to the honor involved. We learn that God notices the scale of our devotion. When we serve with full effort, it stands out.
This word reminds us that details matter. Whether in writing or giving, the size of our action reflects the weight of our heart. Let your faith be visible and substantial, showing others the seriousness of your trust in Christ.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- in how large1×
- how great1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- πηλίκος1×
- πηλίκοις1×
Key Verses
-
Galatians 6:11
See with what large letters I write to you with my own hand.
The word describes the physical size of Paul’s handwriting to emphasize his personal investment and the urgency of his final appeal.
-
Hebrews 7:4
Now consider how great this man was, to whom even Abraham the patriarch gave a tenth out of the best plunder.
It highlights the impressive magnitude of Abraham’s offering, underscoring the honor and significance of the patriarch’s act.