Lexical Summary elaphros: Light, easy Original Word: ἐλαφρός Strong's Exhaustive Concordance light. Probably akin to elauno and the base of elasson; light, i.e. Easy -- light. see GREEK elauno see GREEK elasson HELPS Word-studies 1645 elaphrós (from mikros, "least, little," J. Thayer) – properly, of little weight (light); (figuratively) easily managed (carried) because easy to bear (move with). NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Origina prim. word Definition light, easy to bear NASB Translation light (2). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 1645: ἐλαφρόςἐλαφρός, ἐλαφρα, ἐλαφρόν, light in weight, quick, agile; a light φορτίον is used figuratively concerning the commandments of Jesus, easy to be kept, Matthew 11:30; neuter τό ἐλαφρόν, substantively, the lightness: τῆς θλίψεως (A. V. our light affliction), 2 Corinthians 4:17. (From Homer down.) Topical Lexicon Overview ἐλαφρόν portrays a condition of lightness—something that is not oppressive, crushing, or weight-bearing. Scripture uses the term to contrast what humanity experiences in the present with what Christ provides and with what God promises for eternity. Occurrences in the New Testament 1. Matthew 11:30 Although found only twice, each setting supplies a theological thread that weaves through the entire biblical narrative: God exchanges heaviness for ease, burden for grace, temporal hardship for eternal glory. In the Teaching of Jesus (Matthew 11:30) “For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Berean Standard Bible) Jesus speaks to an audience wearied by Pharisaic legalism and life’s oppressive realities. By calling His burden ἐλαφρόν, He declares that relationship with Him is fundamentally different from religion without Him. The imagery assumes two oxen under one yoke; the stronger carries the weight while the weaker benefits. Christ shoulders the load, making discipleship sustainable rather than crushing (compare Isaiah 42:3; Psalm 55:22). In Paul’s Letter to Corinth (2 Corinthians 4:17) “For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that is far beyond comparison.” Paul juxtaposes ἐλαφρόν with “eternal weight of glory.” The present pressures of ministry—beatings, imprisonments, slander—are labeled “light” only when measured against endless glory. The verse teaches perspective: suffering is not denied but relativized by eternity. Affliction becomes not merely tolerable but productive; it “is producing for us” an outcome of inestimable value (Romans 8:18). Old Testament Background Hebrew Scripture often contrasts heavy and light burdens. Rehoboam’s folly—“My father made your yoke heavy, but I will add to your yoke” (1 Kings 12:14)—illustrates oppressive leadership, whereas God promises rest (Exodus 33:14). Isaiah’s vision of the Servant who lifts burdens (Isaiah 53:4) foreshadows Jesus’ invitation in Matthew 11. Theological Significance • Christ’s atonement relieves sin’s weight (Hebrews 12:1-2). Practical Ministry Application 1. Pastoral care: Offer Christ’s yoke, not additional regulations. Historical Interpretation Early Church Fathers cited Matthew 11:30 when combating legalism and Gnosticism, emphasizing the accessibility of Christ’s teachings. Reformers highlighted ἐλαφρόν to contrast gospel grace with medieval penance systems. Modern missions literature applies 2 Corinthians 4:17 to martyrdom and cross-cultural hardship. Connections to Related New Testament Themes • Grace vs. works (Galatians 5:1). Summary Strong’s Greek 1645, though rare, functions as a theological pivot: what seems weighty in human experience becomes “light” in Christ, and what is truly weighty—eternal glory—is secured by Him. Believers are thus invited to labor under a yoke that liberates and to endure present afflictions with eyes fixed on the incomparable, everlasting reward. Forms and Transliterations ελαφραί ελαφρον ελαφρόν ἐλαφρόν ἐλαφρὸν ελαφρός ελαφρότερος elaphron elaphrón elaphrònLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Matthew 11:30 Adj-NNSGRK: φορτίον μου ἐλαφρόν ἐστιν NAS: is easy and My burden is light. KJV: burden is light. INT: burden of me light is 2 Corinthians 4:17 Adj-NNS |
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