πλατύνω (platunō)
platunō
to widen
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb platunō means to make something wide or broad. In the New Testament, it appears only three times, linking a physical action with an inner spiritual reality. Jesus uses it literally in Matthew 23:5 to describe the Pharisees making their phylacteries wide, a visible display of religious observance that drew public attention.
Paul shifts the word to a metaphorical sense in 2 Corinthians 6:11-13. He speaks of his own heart being "enlarged" or widened to hold more affection for the Corinthian believers. Here, the word describes an expansion of capacity for love and welcome, urging them to respond in kind by widening their own hearts toward him.
Its root relates to the adjective platys, meaning broad or flat. This etymology highlights a contrast between narrowness and openness. While the Pharisees sought to expand their external appearance, Paul describes an internal expansion of relational warmth. The word captures the idea that genuine love requires a broadened heart capable of receiving others.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word platunō describes the act of making something wide or broad. In Matthew 23:5, Jesus uses it literally to describe Pharisees who make their phylacteries broad. They did this to be seen by others, turning a private act of faith into a public display. This usage reminds us that God looks at the heart, not just the outward appearance.
Paul offers a deeper meaning in 2 Corinthians 6:11. He says his heart is enlarged, or widened, to hold more love for the believers there. Here, the word shifts from external show to internal capacity. A wide heart can receive others with genuine warmth and welcome.
This invites us to examine our own spiritual posture. Are we seeking attention, or are we expanding our capacity to love? God calls us to a faith that is open and generous. May your heart grow wider in compassion and kindness toward those around you.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- has been expanded;1×
- do open [yourselves]1×
- They broaden1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- πλατύνουσιν1×
- πλατύνθητε1×
- πεπλάτυνται·1×
Key Verses
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Matthew 23:5
But they do all their works to be seen by men. They make their phylacteries broad and enlarge the fringes of their garments,
This verse shows the word used literally for making phylacteries broad, highlighting a contrast between external religious display and internal sincerity.
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II Corinthians 6:11
Our mouth is open to you, Corinthians. Our heart is enlarged.
Paul uses the term metaphorically here to describe his own heart being widened to hold greater affection for the Corinthian believers.
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II Corinthians 6:13
Now in return—I speak as to my children—you also open your hearts.
This occurrence serves as a direct appeal for the readers to reciprocate by opening their hearts, linking the physical act of widening to relational openness.