As a follower of Christ, I’m sure that you’re quite familiar with the work magnify. It’s something that we associate with worship. That’s definitely true. Nonetheless, I still would like to look at what the word magnify means in Hebrew and Greek.
But first, let’s take a look at the definition of the word magnify means according to the 1828 Noah Webster’s Dictionary:
“1. To make great or greater; to increase the apparent dimensions of a body. A convex lens magnifies the bulk of a body to the eye.
2. To make great in representation; to extol; to exalt in description or praise. The embassador magnified the king and queen.
3. To extol; to exalt; to elevate; to raise in estimation.”
All scriptures are taken from NKJV unless otherwise marked.
What Does The Word ‘Magnify’ Mean In Hebrew?
gadal- to be great, make great.
Gadal means to become strong, be great or wealthy, or grow up. This verb can mean the increase in size and age (Genesis 21:8). It can also represent the status of one who is great or wealthy. It’s often applied to kings.
saga- to laud, extol.
Related: What Does The Word ‘Happiness’ Means In Hebrew and Greek?
What Does The Word ‘Magnify’ Mean In Greek?
doxazo- to render, esteem glorious.
As a verb, it means to extol, praise, magnify.
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.“
– Matthew 5:16
It’s used in glorifying:
- God
- the Word of God (Acts 13:48)
- the name of the Lord (Revelation 15:4)
- oneself (John 8:54)
Also, it can mean ‘full of glory’. This is said of Christ (John 7:39) and the Father (John 13:31).
megaluno- to increase or extol.
This word is translated into:
- enlarge (Matthew 23:5)
- shew great (Luke 1:58)
- to magnify (Luke 1:46)
Conclusion
In conclusion, the word magnify means to praise or make great. Therefore, every time we praise God, we are magnifying Him. This holds incredible power because as we focus on God, our problems seem to get smaller. That’s because we know that God is more powerful and greater than anything this life could ever hold. Make praising God a regular pastime and just see how your life changes.
That’s what the word magnify means in Hebrew and Greek. I pray you enjoyed this article. If so, please share this content. Also, feel free to share any thoughts in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
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I really enjoyed reading and felt enriched in my faith. Praise the Lord at all times is the call addressed to me right now. Thanks for the above article.