Lexical Summary pollaplasión: Many times more, manifold more Original Word: πολλαπλασίων Strong's Exhaustive Concordance manifold more. From polus and probably a derivative of pleko; manifold, i.e. (neuter as noun) very much more -- manifold more. see GREEK polus see GREEK pleko NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom polus and perhaps a cptv. of the same Definition many times more NASB Translation many times (2), many times as much (2). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 4179: πολλαπλασίωνπολλαπλασίων, πολλαπλασιον, genitive πολλαπλασιονος, (πολύς), manifold, much more: Matthew 19:29 L T Tr WH; Luke 18:30. (Polybius, Pint., others; (cf. Buttmann, 30 (27)).) Topical Lexicon Biblical Meaning and ContextLuke 18:30 records Jesus’ assurance that anyone who relinquishes earthly ties “will receive many times more in this age—and in the age to come, eternal life”. The term translated “many times more” appears only here in the Greek New Testament, emphasizing divine multiplication that transcends human arithmetic and guarantees that no sacrifice for Christ is ever a net loss. Old Testament Roots The concept of multiplied recompense permeates the Hebrew Scriptures: Job’s restoration (Job 42:10-17), covenant promises of abundant return after repentance (Deuteronomy 30:3-5), and the pledge that generosity to the poor is a loan the LORD will repay (Proverbs 19:17). These passages foreshadow the Messiah’s promise of manifold blessing for faithful obedience. Synoptic Parallels and New Testament Development Matthew 19:29 and Mark 10:30 use “hundredfold” to express the same idea; Luke’s wording highlights the qualitative breadth rather than a strict numeric ratio. Paul echoes the principle, contrasting present sufferings with incomparable future glory (Romans 8:18), and the writer of Hebrews links it to steadfast confidence (Hebrews 10:34-36). Discipleship and Sacrifice Luke juxtaposes the rich ruler’s refusal with the disciples’ surrender, underscoring that those who prioritize the kingdom gain more than they forfeit. Present blessings include a new spiritual family and divine provision, yet the promise climaxes in eternal life, defining true reward. Historical Reception Early believers drew on Luke 18:30 to encourage martyrdom, missionary labor, and monastic renunciation. Tertullian spoke of “greater returns” for confessors, and Athanasius cited the verse when commending desert ascetics. Medieval commentators applied it to almsgiving, viewing the poor as trustees of heavenly treasure. Practical Ministry Application • Missions: Leaving home and culture for the gospel yields rich fellowship and eternal reward. Safeguard Against Distortion The promise does not sanction covetousness. Mark 10:30 adds “along with persecutions,” reminding disciples that blessing and hardship travel together until ultimate consummation. The focus remains on divine faithfulness, not material entitlement. Eschatological Horizon “Many times more in this age” reveals the kingdom already breaking in; “and in the age to come, eternal life” anchors hope beyond death. The term bridges present experience and future consummation, assuring believers that God’s ledger balances in their favor both now and forever. Key Theological Themes • God rewards sacrificial obedience with superabundant grace. Forms and Transliterations ἑκατονταπλασίονα πολλαπλασιονα πολλαπλασίονα πολλαχώς πολλοστός πολυάνδριον πολυανδρίω πολυέλεος πολυήμεροι πολυήμερος ekatontaplasiona hekatontaplasiona hekatontaplasíona pollaplasiona pollaplasíonaLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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